CALL Reflection #1

Overall, I really enjoyed this week's readings because they provided 1) a wonderful summary of the different perspectives in language learning and how they have evolved and 2) key conditions for the ideal language learning environment. I was a little surprised these CALL readings started with the core theories and methodologies of good teaching. I guess I expected them to focus solely on technological aspects; however, if you don't embrace good teaching principles, your computer "wizardry" will not lead to successful teaching or learning in the classroom. The 8 Optimal Environmental Conditions mentioned in the Egbert et. al. article support the communicative approach and can all be supported by technology. Furthermore, the Kern & Warschauer article did a great job comparing the different philosophies of learning through the lens of language education.

I was very happy to see the importance of metacognitive skills mentioned in both readings. I personally think this is very important in learning. It really makes a difference of how I teach my lessons and work with my students. I like the "computer-as-toolkit" model and how in computer networking, computers are "used as a vehicle for interactive human communication (Kern & Warschauer, 2000, Sociocognitive Approaches to CALL)." This concept allows the world, the target language, culture and social interactions in particular, to enter the classroom. If you embrace a social-constructivist view of learning than CALL is a powerful tool.

Besides bringing authentic social interactions and materials into the classroom (Kern & Warschauer, 2000), I also like how CALL allows us to teach our students a second language while exposing them to a medium that they will need to survive in that language. Furthermore, CALL allows students more time to plan and reflect their language use (Kern & Warschauer, 2000). I think this is really important with adolescent and adult learners who can often be inhibited by their fear of making mistakes or sounding stupid. I know I feel more capable in my second language when I writing versus when I'm speaking. Hopefully CALL will allow students to develop a lifetime interest in other languages and cultures and help them take more risks in language learning.

The readings provided a good foundation for CALL and helped place it in a familiar context with relation to some of my former studies (i.e. methodologies & learning theories). The Egbert et. al. reading also brought up a good question which I found interesting: "Which technologies are best for supporting the best methods of teaching and learning? (pg. 9)." Hopefully what I learn in this class will help me better answer this question.