More recent applications on CD-ROM include multimedia and often contain entire language learning courses. More narrowly, a CALL application refers to a piece of software designed for language learning in which the computer takes on the role of tutor, providing language input, setting tasks for the learner and providing feedback on them. The aim of this session is to introduce you to some recent CALL applications and to work out a list of evaluation criteria for applications of this kind. Many language learning software applications are designed so that the computer functions as a tutor - in other words the computer is supposed to teach something to the user. Pedagogical criteria are concerned with what and how the student is expected to learn.
Technical criteria are concerned with the attractiveness and ease of use of the software.
Before we begin looking at examples of language teaching software, brainstorm a list of five evaluation questions under each of these headings and post them on the message board. Take a look at all of them, then choose one and evaluate it using your evaluation questions. Post your results on the message board. A large number of web sites have been developed specifically to teach English. They vary in quality and the degree to which they make use of the potential of the Internet.