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.