The Five Ws and How of Starting / Improving CALL Programs

Workshop presentation abstract

For more information, eventually see here (currently under development)

by Nicholas E. Miller

Having been Œintoı computers for over a quarter century, and CALL a good number of years, Iım a believer. But, a trip to any EFL conference makes me think of the seven blind men and the elephant. Although most presentations today are on multimedia or the Internet, CALL is many things.

CALL will never replace teachers, but teachers who donıt know CALL may be replaced. Computers are tools. Any teacher who refuses to use computers is like a teacher who refuses to use video, cassettes, books, paper, or even a blackboard. All are valid and useful tools for teaching.

Who should use CALL? A case can be made for every school, teacher and student. Your students hate to study? Theyıll love CALL. I should issue a warning: Students may get hooked on CALL! Blind and deaf students? OK! Iıve used CALL with five year olds! Given the equipment and software, an intelligent, motivated teacher can use CALL with anybody.

What is CALL? Computer Assisted Language Learning is the application of a tool to the learning process. It has been called by many names, including CAI (Computer Assisted Instruction), CALI (Computer Assisted Language Instruction).

ŒWhat do I need?ı Hardware, software, a little knowledge, patience and willingness to work. Hardware and software will be determined by budgets, needs of students, class sizes, personal preferences, academic purposes, etc.

What software? Things to consider:

• What is available for (compatible with) my system?
• Do I have the required memory and accessories?
• Is it suitable for my level?
• Is it fun and motivating?
• Is it easy to understand? Come with a manual?
• Will it serve my purpose?

Reading -	ŒReadingı text files, email and home pages, programs to test speed, comprehension, etc.	Writing -	Programs to teach writing skills, word processors for classroom reports, email for real communication.
Listening -	Yes, there are programs for listening, creative activities with cassette players, multiple students and computer(s).	Speaking -	There are programs for speaking, creative activities with cassette players, multiple students and computer(s).
Conversation -	Interactive programs can teach conversational phrases, creative activities can be used by several students.	Grammar -	Computers do very well at this; they are much more patient than teachers.
Spelling and Vocabulary -	Computers do very well at this.	Testing and Test Preparation -	Computers do very well at this.
ESP / Business / Medical / Pre-Departure -	Non-specialist native teachers can assist in multi-purpose language labs, while students learn the specialized language they need.	Etc. -	Anything you teach in language learning can be taught by computer. Subject matter is limited only by your intelligence and dedication.

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IV. WHERE?

Geographic setting - I believe CALL will span the globe, especially in the poorest, most undeveloped countries of the world.

Academic setting - CALL has been used in classes, labs, and as homework. It has been used with many ages and for different purposes. I believe it is fair to say CALL, and CAI in general, can be used in any academic setting.

When? Depending on your school schedule, other teachers, etc. you may use CALL in your primary class, a lab or as outside assignments.

When? What level / age? From beginners to advanced students, from babies to retirees.

Like a famous musician once said, ³if you have to ask, you can never understand.² Simply put, ³To help our students learn.² Itıs the ultimate in practice, production, repetition, and drill. Computers donıt get tired, are always patient, rarely make mistakes, give their undivided attention to the student, and offer immediate feedback.

How do I sell my department head / fellow teachers? This is the hardest part of ALL. All I can say is try. Classroom layout? Depends on space, number and types of machines, etc. Personally, the worst is staring at rows of student faces. Ergonomic U-shaped layouts looking at studentsı working is best.

What now? It is up to you. Personally, I feel if you are not using CALL, you should start. If you are a CALL believer, please help novices. While CALL may not be a religion, I believe in spreading its News, and hope you will, too! See YOUR presentation next year?

Nick Miller
E-mail: panab1@cleanfun.cz
Homepage: http://cleanfun.cz

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