Founded in the 1960's, Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) is adequately described as the design, development and use of computing resources to promote improved language learning environments. Related branches of CALL include: Technology Enhanced Language Learning; Computer Aided Language Testing; Online Language Instruction, Computer-Aided Learning; and more recently Computer Applications in Second Language Acquisition (CASLA).

CALL activities can be classified against three major trends: Structural, Communicative and Integrative CALL.

• Structural (1970s): Formal representational systems that focused on drill and practice exercises. Learner accuracy was the primary learning outcome. Users assume a passive learner role.
• Communicative (1980s): Cognitive-driven systems (influenced by memory models and schema representations) that promoted communicative, interactive exercises. Learner fluency was the primary learning outcome. Users assume a reactive learner role.
• Integrative (1990s - Present): Socio-cognitive systems (reflecting the importance of social and cognitive interaction) that promoted authentic discourse. Here the learner is accorded greater autonomy and agency in the learning process. Users assume a more proactive role.

Journals & References

CALL is supported by many prominent international conferences and journals. Conferences include Computer-Assisted Language Learning, EuroCALL, and the CALICO symposium. Notable CALL-related journals include Computer-Assisted Language Learning Journal, ReCALL,Language Learning & Technology, and the CALICO journal.

Mike Levy's seminal book "Computer-Assisted Language Learning" (1997) provides a detailed review of the field, including historical movements, theory, pedagogy, design, evaluation and (less so) testing. Carol Chapelle's "Computer Applications in Second Language Acquisition" is essential reading on CALL research and evaluation methodologies. A recent collection by Joy Egbert and Gina Petrie "CALL research perspectives" (2005) provides an interesting coverage of cognitive and sociocultural issues in CALL research.

Other introductory sources include articles by Mark Warschauer (1996) "Computer-Assisted Language Learning: An introduction" and Paul Gruba (2004) "Computer-Assisted Language Learning".

Summary Written By

Rod Farmer
Department of Computer Science and Software Engineering
Honorary Fellow, Department of Information Systems
The University of Melbourne