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Home Postgraduate Programmes Course Units MD319

MD319 Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL)
(20 credit points)
Tutors: Gary Motteram & Diane Slaouti

• to obtain an overview of the wider field of computer-based learning
• to gain an awareness of good practice in computer-based materials design
• to develop an understanding of the literature in this area and its impact on design and implementation of computer-based learning.
• to improve confidence in and to develop existing computing skills
• to design and develop appropriate, context-relevant computer-based materials for language learning

Learning outcomes

An ability to:

• design effective computer-based materials for language learning contexts specified by the participants
• choose an appropriate package for a specified context and learning outcomes
• work within different authoring environments: Microsoft Office, HTML, Toolbook
• select, or create and make use of appropriate digital media.

• Critical evaluation of existing contexts and identification of areas for development
• Project management skills
• Persuasion through rational argument (oral (unassessed)and written)
• Appropriate academic presentation (oral (unassessed) and written)
• Appropriate language use
• Application of new or enhanced skills in the use of ICT for the presentation of information and development of learning materials

Content

This course unit involves developing an understanding of key research that informs the development of effective computer-based learning materials and the presentation of techniques for authoring good ELT courseware. A considerable proportion of the course will involve work at the computer screen. This work will be PC-based. Note: Participants should have a good familiarity with Windows-based computers in order to follow this course and should have a good knowledge of existing materials and their exploitation in the classroom. Software will be developed in Microsoft Office, HTML and Toolbook, although the skills learned on this course will be transferable to other authoring packages.

Teaching and learning methods

Onsite input will be provided by a mixture of teaching and learning modes principally hands-on workshops, open learning and seminars. Course unit participants will also be invited to consult the tutor on a one-to-one or small group basis. Distance input will be provided by a combination of print, online and CD ROM materials. A course unit discussion list will provide opportunities for peer exchange and support.

Core texts

Criswell E L (1989) The Design of Computer-Based Instruction London; Macmillan Dunkel P (ed 1991) Computer-Assisted Language Learning and Testing: Research Issues and Practice New York;

Dunkel P (ed 1991) Computer-Assisted Language Learning and Testing: Research Issues and Practice New York; Harper Collins

Levy M (1997) Computer Assisted Language Learning: Context and Conceptualisation Oxford: Clarendon Press

Nunan D (1989) Designing Tasks for the Communicative Classroom Cambridge: CUP

Pennington M (1996) The Power of CALL Houston: Athelstan

Phillips B (1997) The Developer’s Handbook to Interactive Multimedia London: Kogan Page.

Scrimshaw P (ed 1993) Language, Classrooms and Computers London; RKP

Introduction to computer-based tools

Salkind N (1997) Microsoft Office for Windows for Teachers USA: IDG Books

Hall T (2000) Utilising Asymetrix Toolbook II Instructor 7.1 Greenville: TCC Publishing

Assessment

An assignment on an assigned or approved subject to be submitted on or before the approved date. For distance assignments the final submission date is 5 months (fast track) or 11 months after the start date. Permission must be sought in advance from the Faculty Office for an extension on these deadlines.

Availability

Onsite Programme: Semester 1 (September-January)

Distance: 30 September, 1 April