Computer-Assisted Language Learning

Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) is a concept in language education. It is any process in which a learner uses a computer, and as a result, improves his or her language. CALL is essentially a tool that helps teachers to facilitate the language learning process. It can be used to reinforce what has been already learned in the classroom or to help learners who require additional support. CALL may be defined as the search for and study of applications of the computer in language teaching and learning. 

The main aim of CALL is to find ways for using computers for the purpose of teaching and learning the language. More specifically, CALL is the use of computer technologies that promote educational learning, including word processing, presentation packages, guided drill and practice, tutor, simulation, problem solving, games, multimedia CD-ROM, and internet applications such as e-mail, chat and the World Wide Web (WWW) for language learning purposes.

Types of CALL Programs:

·                     CALL-specific software

It is designed to promote explicit or implied language learning objectives and are usually based on the software authors' beliefs about the ways in which students learn languages. They offer support in the acquisition of knowledge about language and in the application of that knowledge both in discrete and in mixed skill activities. Example : CD-ROMs

·                     Generic software

It is designed for general use but they are extremely useful in language teaching when used in activities which seek to apply aspects of the functionality of the software to language learning situations.Example : word-processor

·                     Web-based learning programs:

Example : online dictionaries, news/magazine sites, e-texts, web-quests, blog, wiki, etc.

·                     Computer-mediated communication (CMC) programs

Example : synchronous - online chat, asynchronous - email, discussion forum, message board.

Roles of the Computer in language learning and teaching:

a.      computer as tutor for language drills or skill practice

b.      computer as a tool for writing, presenting, and researching

computer as a medium of global communication   

Constructivist CALL in the classroom:

·                      Group e-mail 

·                       Electronic noticeboards (e.g. Wallwisher)

·                      Interactive Whiteboard

·                       Web 2.0 technologies (e.g. class blogs, wikis, podcasts, social networking) 

·                      Virtual learning environments (e.g. Moodle) 

·                       Virtual world language learning (e.g. WebQuest )

·                      Massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG)

·                      Multimedia projects

Sources :

1. http://www2.nkfust.edu.tw/~emchen/CALL/unit1.htm

2. http://constructivisminelt.wikispaces.com/Constructivism+and+CALL

3. http://web.warwick.ac.uk/CELTE/tr/ovCALL/booklet1.htm

4. https://www.llas.ac.uk/resources/gpg/61

5. http://e-teachingweb.blogspot.com/2014/04/language-teaching-technology-class_16.html

6. http://www.ict4lt.org/en/en_mod1-4.htm

ICT IN EDUCATION

ICT in Education

ICT is the Information and Communication Technologies. ICT in Education means "Teaching and Learning with ICT".

Educational ICT tools can be divided into 3 categories: Input source, Output source and Others.

When using ICT tool we  will get some benefits :

1‧	Through ICT, images can easily be used in teaching and improving the retentive memory of students.
2‧	Through ICT, teachers can easily explain complex instructions and ensure students' comprehension.
3‧	Through ICT, teachers are able to create interactive classes and make the lessons more enjoyable, which could improve student attendance and concentration.

Beside, ICT also bring some disadvantages such as :

1‧	Setting up the devices can be very troublesome.
2‧	Too expensive to afford
3‧	Hard for teachers to use with a lack of experience using ICT tools

Management Information System

Management Information system (MIS) is a system that provides information needed to manage organization effectively. It is involve three primary resources, such as technology, information and people. It is an organized approach to the study of the information needs of an organization’s management at every level in making operational, tactical, and strategic decisions. Its objective  is to design and implement procedure, process, and routines, the provide suitably detailed reports in an accurate, consistent and timely manner.

Information System is a combination of information technology and and people's activities using that technology to support operations, management. In a very broad sense, the term information system is frequently used to refer to the interaction between people, data and technology. Information System plays a crucial role in business when it comes to business process and operation. It helps the managers to conduct their daily activities and functions properly. Furthermore, it helps to conduct activities like account creating, and withdrawal of money with the help of soft wares. It also supports decision making for employees and managers. It also supports in making strategis decision for competetive advantages. Information system is very important to business. It is where the input, process and output take place. It serves as a guide for business workers to be responsible enough in making decisions and performing their jobs. Just imagine when you are handling a business without the application of information technology, a business will have least improvements.Why? beacause it can be used for strategic success of the company. Management Information System covers three things : hypertext, hypermedia, and multimedia.