Introduction to CALL:
Computer Assisted
Language Learning
CALL, or Computer Assisted Language Learning, integrates technology
into language education to make learning more personalized, engaging,
and effective. It leverages the internet, multimedia, and virtual tools to
enhance traditional language teaching methods. CALL supports both
teachers and students by providing diverse resources that adapt to
individual learning needs.
This approach has grown alongside technological advances, becoming
essential for modern language instruction. It offers a dynamic way to
learn languages, combining creativity and technology to meet the
challenges of today's educational environment.
Defining CALL and Its
Learning Environments
What is CALL? Learning Settings
CALL involves any significant CALL can take place in
use of computers in language classrooms, computer labs, at
learning or teaching. It ranges home, or public spaces, using
from individual software use to devices like microcomputers,
interactive online classes. notebooks, or even cell phones.
Interaction Modes
Students may work alone, in groups, or interact with teachers and
peers via computer-mediated communication, enhancing engagement
and collaboration.
The Evolution of CALL:
History and Phases
1 Behaviorist Phase
1960s-70s: Focused on drills and practice using computers
as tutors with non-judgmental feedback.
2 Communicative Phase
Emphasized language use over form, incorporating games
and interactive tasks to foster communication.
3 Integrative Phase
Current phase using multimedia and the Internet,
combining text, graphics, sound, and video for hypermedia
learning.
Key Characteristics of
CALL
Interactivity Flexibility
CALL promotes active Materials can be used
learner engagement, individually or in groups,
allowing students to control integrated into courses, or
their learning pace and assigned as homework.
materials.
Resource Support
Teachers benefit from digital texts, audio, video, and exercises to
enhance lesson preparation and delivery.
Advantages and Disadvantages of CALL
Advantages Disadvantages
• Enables real communication and community building • Financial barriers to access
• Boosts personal confidence and motivation • Limited availability of hardware and software
• Offers personalized and experiential learning • Requires technical and theoretical knowledge
• Provides authentic materials and greater interaction • Challenges in technology acceptance
• Supports independence and global understanding
Roles of Students and Teachers in
CALL
Researchers and Consumers
Engage in studying language acquisition or use CALL software for
classroom activities.
Directors and Managers
Help students find resources and manage computer-mediated
communication inside and outside class.
Developers and Coaches
Create software or websites and support students in developing
computer literacy and CALL skills.
Experts and Professionals
Consult on CALL projects, review software, present at conferences,
and contribute to research and implementation.
CALL Techniques and
Methodology
Computer as Tutor
Programs designed for grammar, listening, reading,
vocabulary, writing, and comprehension practice.
Computer as Stimulus
Software that encourages analysis, critical thinking,
discussion, and writing beyond tutorial functions.
Computer as Tool
Common uses include word processing, grammar
checking, collaborative writing, and internet research.
CALL Methodology and
Resources
Entry Phase
Introduce topics with warming-up activities and interaction before
computer use, motivating students and developing skills.
Elaboration Phase
Use CALL as a tool for learning and practicing, incorporating
cognitive elements like content, complexity, and mental
transformation.
Exit Phase
Students build and recreate knowledge with guided activities
and extra materials, both in class and at home.
