Computer Mediated Communication and ESL

CMC or Computer Mediated Communication is any form of communication or interaction between two or more parties via separate devices or computers through network connection. Nowadays people frequently use CMC with everyone at different times and places. It is very easy and convenient compared to those days that people used letters as medium of interaction. Moreover, CMC is described as any communication patterns that mediated through a computer.

Among applications that are currently used by society are Whatsapp Messenger, Facebook, Twitter and Imessage. Do you know that we could adopt CMC in education?

According to Irom Gambhir Singh (2010), through the use of Computer Mediated Communication (CMC), language learners can develop not only language skills but also intercultural communicative competence, lifelong learning skills and digital literacy. It started in the late 1980s with the introduction of Communicative CALL. When Email and Forums are created, the CMC in education became widely spread. In 1990, Internet Chat Rooms such as Forums allowed direct communication. Two or more parties interact with each other with the use of Internet. It is meant for the long distance teaching or learning for instant, group discussion. Therefore, the popularity of e-tutoring through forums and video conferencing increased because it is a better development in education. There are two types of CMC which are Asynchronous and Synchronous CMC.

Asynchronous CMC

It is not a synchronised communication which means the messages are not sent and replied immediately. E-mails,most social media, internet forums, blogs  and message boards are the examples of asynchronous CMC. It is not a direct communication between parties.

Synchronous CMC

It is known as a synchronised communication between participants or parties. Sent or replied messages can be exchanged immediately and it allows direct communication between them. Internet chat rooms, messenger, video or audio conferencing are the best examples of this CMC. Normally, when a meeting is conducted between the CEO of the company and managers, they will use video conferencing to interact with CEO especially when he is outstation.

Long Distance and Collaborative Learning

CMC was implemented and applied for distance learning of teachers and learners to interact without being in the same location. The use of synchronous communication allows them to video conferencing and E-tutoring. E-lectures became well known and provide short courses over the internet. In my opinion, long distance learning is necessary especially to those who work as full time workers because it saves cost and energy.

Secondly, I do agree that computer does support collaborative learning whether with it’s for assignments or projects. Computers do assist users in enhancing peer interactions and group work. The relationship between group members will be better when they work together not only for discussions but collaborative production of worlds and problem solving as well. Applications such as Google Documents, Google Drive, Blogs and Messenger are very helpful in developing collaborative learning among group members.

One of the characteristics of CMC in education is it offers learners easy access and opportunity to interact between them and native speakers. The context and content of communication is authentic rather than simulated. The interaction that occurs between leaners are more realistic and understandable.

Advantages	Disadvantages
No distance barrier	Inhibitions related to the use of technology
Moderates time as a barrier	Difficulties with access to technology
Collaborations are easier	Lack of socio-emotional and nonverbal cues
Social influences and disadvantages can be avoided	Lack of real human contact

Search Engines & Online Database

Today's topic is quite interesting compared to previous posts. We have been using it daily whether it’s at home, school or office. I'm sure most of you are familiar with search engines and online database but what are they really are?

Search engine is a web tool that allows users to enter keywords and search information on websites contained in its database. My favorite search engine is Google Search because it’s so easy to use and provide immediate feedback. Search Engines like Google or Yahoo uses software that collects data from the Web to include in its database. Every search engine has its own particular database. There are four parts of a search engine which are database is used to store references to Webpages, Web-Crawlers are for finding and compiling indexes of Web Page, user interface and Information Retrieval System.

What is database?

It defines as a storage where all indexed webpages are stored. Imagine database like a storage box where we keep our personal things. It covers only important information of a Webpage and this is the part where the user’s query is matched with database.

Web-Crawlers or Spider

Sometimes it is called bot or an automated program. The function of this “Spider” is to crawl all over the Web Page to collect information based on the keywords, titles, synonyms, access frequency and relevancy that are related to the query. For example, if I search for animals, the Web-Crawlers will explore everything that have relevancy with the subject. The information will be indexed and stored in database.

User Interface

It is a user friendly app/site/page where users may input query and search results are presented. In my opinion, a plain or simple layout that uses black and white font is the best user interface because it is clearer and easier.

Information Retrieval System

When we use search engine, the Information Retrieval System is used to match the user’s query to indexed webpages found in database. It is organized by steps and the results presented in rank according to relevance.

Specialized Search Engines

Do you know that there are specialized search engine for specific area or purpose? Every search engine has its own database that only stores Webpages relevant to a specific field such as Google Scholar, Education World, Art cyclopedia and Pipl.com. For example, Pipl.com is a specialized search engine to find out about people just by entering their names.

Meta Search Engine

It is known as a search engine that matches the user’s query to multiple search engines. Normally, this type of search engine is used among professionals such as the FBI to locate, track down or find out about certain things that are classified. There are three search engines used in in Meta Search Engine which are MetaCrawler, SavvySearch and Dogpile. According to techterms.com, it has stated that even though this strategy gives your search a broader scope than searching a single search engine, the results are not always better. This is because the meta search engine must use its own algorithm to choose the best results from multiple search engines. Often, the results returned by a meta search engine are not as relevant as those returned by a standard search engine.

Do you know that there are different parts of World Wide Web where websites have different access rights? Every part of Web has its own purpose and content, how awesome is that!

Surface Web is the first level of web category which only about 4% of internet is accessible by through search engines like Google, Bing or Yahoo. We can look for general information for education, profession and etc just by searching only on the surface web.

Meanwhile Deep Web contains 90% of the information on the Internet but not accessible by Surface Web crawlers. It is not easy as the surface web to get the information because it needs to be applied with special tools and software and not to mention browsers and other protocol beyond direct links or credentials. Information such as academic information, medical records, legal documents scientific reports, subscription information can be searched by using Deep Web

Last but not least, Dark Web one of part in Web that is restricted to ordinary browsers we need some special tools to access the darker side of the web. The most well-known and most-used one out there is Tor, the short term of The Onion Router, which routes traffic to dark web sites through layers of encryption to allow for anonymity. Many files and data can be encrypted such as illegal information, political protests, drug trafficking sites, private communications.

The Evolution of CALL

 As time goes by, our modern technology is getting better and developed. It helps to assist users in many ways such as improving skills and cognitive thinking. The evolution of CALL has given many benefits to every individual including students, teachers and learners. There are three progressions of CALL which are Behaviouristic CALL, Communicative CALL and Integrated CALL.

Behaviouristic CALL

It is primarily used for Audio-Lingual Method and developed in 1960s based on behaviourist learning theory. The Programmed Instruction involved repetitive drill and practice. Teacher uses computer as aid as a drillmaster with a perfect pronunciation model. The objective is to transfer textbooks and worksheets to computer-based application. There was a project named The Stanford Project in 1960 where students are required to answer questions by using a teletype coordinated with a tape recorder. While students listen to questions, they must type in the answer and their work is compared to the Answer Sheet.

There are many advantages gained from this method such as it can provide immediate feedback. We do not have to waste time to receive feedback and make every second count. As we all know. Repetition is beneficial for learning to have a strong memory. It is a fact that if we keep repeating the same thing such as writing essay, reading educational books or listening to speech, it is easier for us to remember it well. Furthermore, it is efficient record keeping and students can work their own outside the classroom.

It is stated by a theory based on Operant Conditioning by B.F. Skinner which it is somehow associated or similar to the training of animals. CALL activities should be built on continuous motivation and real communication. Students are passive respondents therefore they should be paid more attention.

Communicative CALL

This type of progression is developed between 1970s to 1980s. Basically, it focused on the usage of language than grammar. Students will have the opportunity to create their own words and environment where the usage of the language becomes natural. Grammar will not be stressed on as it is taught implicitly. During this progress, computer will act as tutor where it will provide non-drill format skill practice. Moreover, students will have more control in making choice and interaction in answering such as language games, text reconstructions, paced reading and pronunciation practice.

In addition, communicative CALL operates computer as stimulus to stimulate students’ discussions, writing and critical thinking. This will develop students’ way of thinking to be more realistic and creative. The computer programs are designed to enhance problem solving skill too. Besides that, games are created with the concept of ESL or critical thinking to guide students and language learning is integrated into those games and stimulation.

Communicative CALL objects computer as a tool that involves the use of generic software as tools for language learning such as Word Processor, Excel Spreadsheets and Publisher. This generic software is useful among students and people who work in the office because they need to do reports, assignments, figures or presentation slides that require them to use the applications. Even though these programs do not assist them by providing language material but it ensures and empowers students to use and understand the language.

Advantages
Behaviouristic CALL	Communicative CALL
Repetition is necessary for learning	Cheap programs and widely available
Provide immediate feedback	Focus more on active student performance
Students will be more independent outside the classroom	Greater students’ participation
Efficient record keeping	Learning experience becomes more real, authentic and exciting

Integrated CALL

This type of progression is combining various aspects or real-world materials in Computer Assisted Language Learning. The introduction of CD-ROM as a location to store large amounts of media was the starting point of Integrated CALL. It continued with the development of high speed internet and widely accessible hypermedia which is the extension of hypertext. It is described as a non-linear medium of information that can include texts, audio and graphical media and consists of both interactive and non-interactive media.

How is the Internet and CALL related?

As you know that CALL is getting advanced and it is caused by the internet to access and communicate information. With the existence of internet, everything gets better and improved. It is used for various purposes and acts as a role of the English Language. Despite of being just recipients, they started to communicate and create. This is the part where Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) is produced where it is an authentic two-way communication where students can directly communicate with other speakers and learners of the language. For instant, my group and I can discuss about our assignment with our lecturer through CMC. There are 2 types of CMC which are:

1) Asynchronous

2) Synchronous

No matter how good or advanced it is, we still have to be alert about every aspect of the program. It is said that one of the disadvantages of Integrated CALL is the quality of the authentic material varies between creators. For example if you are not creative, your material might not be good. It is not suitable for ESL learners and the interactions over CMC may be concise but it is disposed to human mistakes.

In conclusion, behaviourist and communicative CALL are still used even though it is not advanced. There are many aspects or ideas of Computer Assisted Language Learning are developed with the help of internet and wide availability of technology. We cannot expect to be motivated from the computer, thus learning English is becoming difficult. 

What is CALL?

CALL ( Computer Assisted Language Learning )

• Definition

A search for and study of the application of computer in language teaching and learning. Basically, it is a process whereby learners use computers to improve their language. The elements are as such;

1. Material Designs
2. Technologies
3. Pedagogical Theories
4. Modes of Instruction

• CALL programs

There are 4 types of CALL programs which are;

- CALL-specific Software
- Generic Software
- Web-based Learning Programs
- CMC

CALL-specific Software

This includes applications and programs that are designed to facilitate language learning. It is suitable for children and adults which helps them to learn better in learning language. Applications with fun and interesting pictures, video or games will attract every kid because they are still young and full of curiosity. It provides web-based exercises, ELT- software and games as well.

Generic Software

This software is common installed in computers to assist users in writing, listening, speaking and reading. It can help you to improve in writing essays, pronunciations and spelling too. The most popular generic software is Microsoft. There are many types of Microsoft such as Microsoft Word, Microsoft Power Point, Microsoft Publisher and etc.

Web-based Learning Programs

This type of CALL program is known as applications found on the internet that are used for mediums or tools of language teaching and learning. It is very informative and useful not only to students but everyone who is trying to have an improvement on language and the programs are as such;

Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC)

Nowadays, most computers and smartphones have CMC installed in the device, but what is CMC? It is known as applications or websites that facilitate online communication. How cool is that?! If you do not have these applications or websites it would be difficult for you to communicate because the world now is in modern technology.
There are two types of CMC which are synchronous and asynchronous.

1) Synchronous - Instant messaging or online chats such as Whatsapp and Telegram.
2) Asynchronous - Email, discussion forum and message board such as Gmail.

I could never be proud enough knowing how intelligent human beings are for inventing computers. It shows that we should never give up in pursuing our dreams and beat the challenges. Nevertheless, even though there are many functions of having computers but it is lack of some capabilities.

Computers Can	Computers Can’t
Judge predetermined right-or-wrong answers, e.g., multiple choice and fill-in-the-blanks	Judge unexpected input
Provide immediate, yet fixed, feedback, suggestions, and encouragement	Provide individualized feedback beyond a predetermined list of messages
Provide authentic information through multimedia - texts, images, sounds,videos, and animations	Engage learner in rich negotiation of meaning characteristic of face-to-face interaction
Motivate task persistence and record learner’s writing, speech, and learning progress	Motivate depth and quality of engagement characteristic of human interaction

• Role of Computers

1) It acts as a virtual teacher in practicing language drills.
2) It acts as a writing, presenting and research tool.
3)It is known as a medium of communication.
4) Even though it is an advance technology but it only guides the user and can't replace teacher's roles.
5) Users should know how to use the computers and the purpose of using it.

BLOG!

I bet everyone of you know what blog is. Maybe you used to have a blog when you were still in high school and it's like your diary where you write every single thing that happened throughout the day. There are many things to talk about in your blog such as foods, fashion, technologies and travels.

                            

There are 4 types of blog which are Weblog, Tutor Blog, Class Blog and Learner Blog.

WEBLOG

This type of blog is commonly used by everyone. Bloggers normally post about their personal life, interests, useful information and etc. Mostly bloggers will set it as a public blog so everyone can view and read their posts but somehow there are some of them who choose to make it private because it touches about their life. Besides that, weblog is used for companies such as businessman, retailers and entrepreneurs to acknowledge new information or news about their companies.

TUTOR BLOG

Secondly, another type of blogs that is known among educators and students is Tutor Blog. As compared to Weblog, this blog is entitled to teacher or educator. Usually the content of the blog will touch about syllabus material, course information, class homework and assignments. Students will refer to this blog to collect useful information in order to complete their task. Besides that, some tutors will update his/her blog sharing their reflections, culture and experiences that are related to the teaching material.

CLASS BLOG

I am sure you are familiar with Class Blog since high school and it is widely used among students. It is shared between class members and teachers as well. They can post contents that are related to the lessons so that it would be easier for the students to refer. Furthermore, class blog can be a site where students can have discussions  them while their teacher acts as a moderator. Teachers will always have to guide them because students might get distracted to browse other websites that are not related to their class blog.

LEARNER BLOG

This blog is considered students' personal blog where they can post daily about almost anything for example journal, reflections, personal thoughts and their interests. No one can access the blog but them. When they keep posting on the blog, it will improve their writing skill and cognitive thinking. Nevertheless, it is difficult for teachers to implement because it takes more time and effort to make it effective.

Do you ever wonder what is the purpose of blogs Does blog bring any good to us? 

Nowadays, technology is getting advanced and improved in order to help us in many ways. Most schools, colleges or offices do have blogs for their own purpose. In schools, teacher will give exercises or handouts to students but by having class blog, students will get extra reading and eventually it will improve their understanding. Besides that, blog can attract passive students' interests to participate in class learning and activities. We have to admit that sometimes there are students who feel shy to even talk to their teacher and so this is one of the alternatives to change this situation. When students are home or outside from school, there are chances that they might not do revision so they can simply log in to class blog and read the materials posted. Students tend to communicate more with their friends and build a closer relationship between them.

Thank you!