ERIC Number: EJ827538
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2009-Feb
Pages: 8
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1094-3501
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Available Date: N/A
Emerging Technologies Focusing on Form: Tools and Strategies
Godwin-Jones, Robert
Language Learning & Technology, v13 n1 p5-12 Feb 2009
Using computers to help students practice and learn grammatical constructions goes back to the earliest days of computer-assisted language learning (CALL). With the coming of the Internet age, CALL began to focus more heavily on the new capabilities of group connectivity and computer-mediated communication. More recently, a gathering consensus has emerged that for adult learners, at least, an awareness of forms and rules is a vital component of online language learning. Compared to the nature of earlier grammar-oriented applications, however, there is recognition today that a focus on form should not be an isolated, stand-alone activity but rather should be integrated into a communication-centered, networked language learning environment. The expectation today is that programs will guide students to pay attention to forms and structures, to gain facility in their use, and to extend their language knowledge/usage to more complex constructions. Stated succinctly, grammar exercises need to be integrated, intelligent, and innovative. Fortunately, technology developments and creative language professionals are moving down this path. Recent trends in intelligent language tutors (ILT) are quite promising, despite the multiple challenges of natural language processing (NLP). Having over-promised and underachieved in the past, developers of ILT (also known as ICALL, intelligent CALL, or parser-based CALL) have mostly narrowed their ambitions and scope, resulting in actually deployed systems rather than just research prototypes. In this article, the author discusses the latest tools and strategies for developing intelligent language tutors (ILT's). He explains how grammar exercises that focus on form need to be "integrated, intelligent, and innovative."
Descriptors: Computer Mediated Communication, Computer Assisted Instruction, Adult Learning, Educational Technology, Natural Language Processing, Intelligent Tutoring Systems, Generative Grammar, Form Classes (Languages), Structural Grammar, Computer Software Reviews, Educational Strategies, Change Strategies, Technological Advancement, Technology Integration
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
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Author Affiliations: N/A