This article examines the use of the Voyager Compact Disk (CD) AudioStack to provide HyperCard stacks designed to promote language learning with the ability to play on common precisely specified portions of off-the-shelf audio compact disks in a CD-ROM drive. Four German and Russian HyperCard stacks are described and their construction outlined.…

Results of a two-year project (L'Italiano interattivo) conducted in collaboration with the Norwegian Computing Centre for the Humanities to produce learner-directed Italian courseware are reported. The SuperCard-developed program allows students to work with video, exercises, grammar, dictionary, or transcripts. (Author/LB)

The Macintosh HyperCard environment has become a popular platform for Japanese language courseware because of its flexibility and ease of programing. This project created Japanese bitmap font files for the JIS Levels 1 and 2, and writing XFCNs for font manipulation, Japanese kana input, and answer correction. (12 references) (Author/LB)

The effectiveness of advanced learning technologies is discussed and the concept of Just-in-Time Learning Systems with the potential of multimedia for interactive learning is advocated. Five key elements of a multimedia learning system are presented, including the use of digitized video. (LB)

It is argued that software developers should use a combination of methodologies to determine the reading difficulties of lower-level foreign language students. The Penn State experience with ClearText is reported. (12 references) (Author/LB)

Discusses usability engineering for multimedia learning environments and considers how it can benefit the design and development of educational software. Describes the design and development of interactive multimedia software for second-language learning that included input from users and field testing for usability. (Author/LRW)

The implementation and evaluation of a computer-based kanji finder developed on a Macintosh using HyperCard is reported. In a comparison study, the electronic kanji finder resulted in more effective retrieval than traditional retrieval using reference books. (18 references) (Author/LB)

Argues that, despite the popularity of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL), there is little evidence supporting the effectiveness of educational technology in producing positive language learning outcomes. It is suggested that collaboration in CALL program design is necessary to elicit linguistic data essential to test second language…

Discussion of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) for foreign languages focuses on a case study at Monash University (Australia) that investigated language learning strategies employed by students learning Japanese. Results suggest that computer software designers need to be aware of language learning strategies for effective design of CALL…

Explores how computers and cooperative language learning have dovetailed over the last 15 years, resulting in a phenomenon that may be called cooperative computer-assisted language learning (CCALL). Within the context of computer use, implications of the cooperative learning model are examined for three groups: language learners; courseware…

Presents accumulated insights for benefit of colleagues considering embarking on software development projects. Original purpose of project was to produce a set of grammar revision and extension modules allowing teachers to use computers as a means of ensuring that once a language point had been dealt with in class, students could be required to…

Discusses a computer-assisted language learning model developed by the Didascalia center designed to comply with as many Belgian criteria as possible and based on contents and events in an object-oriented approach. Describes how the didacteme as basic object can enhance learner-content interaction and how this approach can lead to a new platform…

The computer has its own "niches" in language learning in which it functions well in helping students learn a foreign language. Such niches are discussed in the context of developing individualized courseware for developing skill in reading with explanations, speed reading and spelling, and inferencing. (Author/LB)

Reviews existing examples of computer-assisted vocabulary learning and suggests some principles for the future design of such programs. The issues considered are the extent to which the program is specifically oriented to vocabulary learning, what gives the interaction its instructional value, and what makes an interaction specifically…

Presents six principles for the design of adaptive computer-assisted language learning (CALL) programs for vocabulary that incorporate a theory describing quality in the learning outcome and linking it to the learner's approach. Highlights include interactivity; general architecture of a software system; and diagnosis and modification. (Contains…