THE FUTURE FOR COMPUTER AIDED LANGUAGE LEARNING

Анотація

Computer Aided Language Learning (C.A.L.L.) has been available in the world for the
last 25 years. In Ukraine, however, this number may be lowered to about 3 or 4, or even less.
Admittedly the first two years were pretty limited to text only and served for grammar and
vocabulary practice but not much else. But certainly since the launch of Windows, PCs have
been capable of as much video and sound as most course teachers would wish to include.
Using computers in English classroom is important for both teachers and students.
Computers can handle a range of activities and carry out programmed functions at amazing
speed. They can check exercises after they have been done, move students gradually from easier
to more difficult exercises according to their levels and abilities. When students fail to answer
questions correctly or perform activities, the computer can simulate, drill, or explain the
phenomenon in a way that makes it easier for the student to understand.
However, CALL is still neglected by most teachers of English. They either find it a waste
of time or treat it as a game. The potential offered by the machines is covered by futuristic
visions of teacherless classes where students are led by a robotic-looking master that gives
instructions. Computers are accused of taking over the role hitherto assigned to human beings.
At the same time, they are strict, rigid, and devoid of emotions. The best that can be heard of
computers in the English class is that they display colourful images, yet the linguistic content is
very poor. Besides, students sit silently in front of computer screens clicking mice and watching
what is happening. We have seen and heard different negative reactions of teachers of foreign
languages when we said that we used computers in our class.
Our intention here, however, is not criticism of those who do not believe in a new
teaching/learning tool, but presentation of some of the elements of CALL in teaching English to
Ukrainian students.