WEEK 3: Roles of Computer (Language Learning and Teaching)

Computer always plays a crucial role in both language teaching and learning.

In language teaching per se, its first primary role is to function as means to communicate through asynchronous or synchronous application such as Email, Online Forums, Live Web Conferences, Online chatting or Instant Messaging. It is also used to present or deliver lessons/lectures to students through application software e.g. Microsoft PowerPointand to calculate and record grades of performance and written assessments through application software e.g. Microsoft Excel and Access. Computer can be used as a tool to draw students’ attention and d other various application software such as word processing (mainly) used to prepare instruction, tutorials and exercises.

In language learning, students are usually given the chance to learn language at their own pace and direction. Just like teaching, there is always a a platform for classroom discussions through asynchronous computer mediated communication such as online forums, instant messaging and online chatting. Users are provided with an abundance of or unlimited access to information from off the web.