New Perspectives on CALL (Computer Assisted Language Learning) for Second Language Classrooms

New Perspectives on CALL (Computer

Assisted Language Learning) for Second Language Classroom

Siyaswati and Hertiki

Introduction• CALL is defined as “the search for

and study of applications on the computer in language teaching and learning and now is used in a variety of instructional situations” (Levy, 1997:1)


Role of the Teachers on CALL• Design, implement, and evaluate

CALL activities in the class• Work together with other institution

to develop CALL-based exchange programs

• Operate a multimedia language laboratory


Computer use in L2 learning• “Technology will not replace

teachers; teachers who use technology will replace those who don’t”

• Teachers must find opportunities to gain CALL skils by taking courses in computer technology


Education in the Pre-computer Society (Pelgrum 2001:164)

• School is isolated from society• Information on school functioning is

confidential• Teacher initiates and controls• Low emphasis on communication


• Teachers-fronted instruction of students

• Evaluates students• Students mostly passive learning• Learning mostly at school• Little teamwork• Answers questions from text-book• Low interest in learning


Education in the Information Society (Pelgrum 2001:164)

• Integrated in society• Information on school functioning is

openly available• Empowers students to find

appropriate instruction for their particular learning


• Teacher as facilitator guides the students’ in the whole class dependent learning

• Helps students evaluate their own progress

• High emphasis on communication skills

• Actively in charge of own learning• Learning at school and outside of

schoolSiyaswati and Hertiki

• Asks questions; learns to find answers to books or teacher questions

• Much teamwork• High interest in learning


Development of CALL• The use of CALL and distance

learning activities is to create classroom discourse communities and encourage shy students to participate more fully

• To develop students’ ideas and promote learning from their classmates


CALL Activities• Writing: word processing, text

analysis, desktop publishing often combined with a LAN (local area network)

• For example: write essays through email, do the peer-checking and give comment


• Communicating: e-mail exchanges, real-time chat, EDMODO


• Multimedia: course software CD-ROM or online study for specific skills such as pronunciation, grammar, and integrated skills

• Internet: web searches (education articles)


• Online dictionaries for definitions and usage information (Cambridge, Macmillan, Oxford, Webster’s)

• Distance learning via internet


Strengths and Weaknesses of CALL

• Strengths: the interactivity of the computer in implementing learner-centered teaching methods

• Weaknesses: educators must be aware in choosing the software program when they use in teaching contexts


Advantages of CALL• Interest and motivation• Individualization• A compatible learning style• Optimal use of learning time• Immediate feedback


• Error analysis• Guided and repetitive practice• Pre-determined to process syllabus


Disadvantages of CALL• Less-handy equipment• Increased educational costs• Lack of trained teachers• Imperfect current CALL programs• Inability to handle unexpected

situations


Conclusion

• CALL for Second Language Classroom can be reached by implementing CALL in teaching and learning of English

• Teachers must realize the advantages and disadvantages of current CALL programs before applying it to help student learning



University of PGRI Adi Buana Surabaya

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