Not every city can host such a large convention. It is a working convention. At any one time period, there are twenty or more presentations scheduled, from papers and demonstrations to colloquia and discussion groups. This year's conference programme is 350 pages in length. While there are many sources of information on the use of computers in teaching, and in language teaching in particular, CALL-IS provides a look at the cutting edge of the pedagogy of computer use.
Presentations are peer-reviewed by teachers who have a strong background in computer applications.
It is not enough to examine the technologies simply from the perspective of what the machines and networks allow. One must also look at these technologies through the pedagogical lens of actual teachers applying the technology to specific situations. It is important to seek perfection and excellence in a particular field of application. From this basis of expertise, one can better extrapolate to other areas. Language learning is a good challenge for technology in education.