The author believes that the new computer based technologies have the potential to contribute significantly to second and foreign language learning. However, having conducted some fairly elementary research in 1996 there were clearly a number of issues that needed to be addressed within many teaching institutions. The research included strategies for achieving both qualitative and quantitative outcomes.
In response to a survey one of the participants addressing a question related to future technology planning, stated that, "language labs are being phased out. Single work stations are the rage". The frequency of statements like this is and the lack of clear comparative evidence of significant learning enhancement from computers is what actually prompted the research in the first place. Basically, the objective was to obtain a clearer perspective of the general development of CALL in Australian Institutions.
A few interesting (to the author) things that emerged from the study were that:- Most institutions appear to be approaching the development of CALL facilities independently
- Teachers are working individually on materials development and formative evaluation of materials appears to be minimal
- Little comparative research appears to be taking place at the 'teaching face' which could be useful for qualifying or quantifying the 'gains' from the new technology.
- Materials development is 'time-intensive', and time for materials development appears to be one of the major factors restraining CALL development.
- All intitiutions indicated that budgets were insufficient.
During the various stages of the qualitative research it became increasingly clear that many teachers are creating CALL materials in relative isolation. This highlighted the importance of establishing collegial, institutional, and cross-institutional support systems to assist with the successful implementation of new technologies such as CALL. Perhaps through increased joint-institutional participation, we may be able to pool resources and expertise, and better address the major constraint - time. It appears unlikely that with ever decreasing budgets that more time will become available for materials development in the near future.
I would really appreciate your comments on these issues, especially from countries other than Australia.
On page two of this document I have provided a number of key links which will lead you to articles and many other useful links addressing CALL resources and information issues.
On page three you will find practical examples of call exercises available on the Internet. If you are interested in computer laboratory planning and design Computer Lab is a good place to start (this page was written for Indonesian conditions).
