ComputerAssisted Language Learning

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Computer-Assisted Language Learning

• Xiaofei Lu
• APLNG 588
• Fall 2007

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Agenda

• Syllabus
• Introduction
• Beginning HTML

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Introduction

• What is CALL
• Complexity of CALL
• A design exercise
• Resources

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What is CALL?

• A process that involves (Egbert Petrie 2005)
• Learners
• Language
• Context
• Tool
• Tasks/activities
• Peers and teachers
• A field that involves (Levy Stockwell 2006)
• System design, development and evaluation
• Research and practice around a product or
  application

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Complexity of CALL

• Emerging technological tools
• Diverse theories of language learning
• Multiple contextual factors
• Varied challenges from target language

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Technologies

• Communication, generic and NLP tools
• Usefulness in CALL
• Effective language manipulation
• Online, context-sensitive help
• Facilitates language learning processes
• Principled use of CALL materials
• Relation to intended task

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Technologies

• Tools for design and development
• Web editor Dreamweaver
• Learning management system ANGEL
• Authoring tool Hot Potatoes
• Products
• Website Learn Welsh

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Theories

• Diverse theoretical perspectives
• Focus on specific questions or variables
• More focus on individual/social factors
• Evolving conceptions of task goals
• Communication cognitive strategies
• Learner creativity awareness
• Learning strategies learner autonomy
• Pedagogical goals and task design

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Contextual factors

• Learner characteristics
• Contextual factors
• Physical setting
• Temporal environment
• Learning environment
• The curriculum and the teacher

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Challenges from target language

• Availability of native speakers for collaboration
• Technological challenges
• Scripted languages
• Tonal languages

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A design exercise

• PSU freshmen vs. State College high school
  student learning Korean

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Resources

• Organizations and conferences
• CALL
• EuroCALL
• CALICO
• IALLT
• WorldCALL

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Resources

• Specialized journals
• Computer Assisted Language Learning
• CALICO Journal
• SYSTEM
• Language Learning and Technology
• The JALT CALL Journal