Personal Reflections on Computer Assisted Language Learning

These days, many studies have focused on implementing CALL into language instruction; and these developments in computer-aid design seem to have considerable potential. For this reason, lots of English teachers are eager to utilize CALL or CAI to promote learners’ language ability in schools. However, in reality, many instructors still lack professional and adequate knowledge about how to integrate CALL or CAI into language teaching. It seems that their instruction tends to focus on computer use instead of language learning. Students often work on how to manipulate computers, surf on the Internet or play on-line games in English class; their English ability is not enhanced by means of CALL. Moreover, while we English teachers try to promote our teaching efficiency with the help of CALL, we should consider the appropriateness and feasibility. Some educators may misunderstand that CALL is a cure-all; they abandon other useful teaching methods.

From my point of view, instructors must devote themselves to absorbing relevant knowledge about CALL and make themselves familiar with CALL so as to utilize it efficiently and effectively. In addition, although CALL is helpful, the educators should make use of it properly to really help pupils learn English. And traditional teaching methods or the combination of CALL and traditional instructional methods are also valuable and good ways which could be employed to teach pupils English as well.