Computer Assisted Language Learning and English Language
Teaching in Thailand: Overview
Attapol Khamkhien
Faculty of Liberal Arts and Science, Kasetsart University
E-mail: faasapk@ku.ac.th
The Development of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL)
As for the development of CALL, Warschauer & Healey (1998) suggest that CALL can be generally
categorized based on three teaching methodologies dominant in ELT: behavioristic CALL, communicative
CALL, and integrative CALL.
😀Behavioristic CALL is recognized as the first phase of CALL. Most of
CALL programs in this phase entailed repetitive language drills-and-practice activities.
😀Communicative CALL,The focus of CALL in this phase is placed on using the
language or functions rather than analysis of language forms. But not in a drill format like in the first phase.
😀Integrative CALL,In this phase, the computer serves as tool,
in which the computer does not provide learning material, but empowers users to actually use language. CALL in this period is regarded as a shift from the use of the computer for drill and tutorial purposed into a
medium for extending education beyond the language classroom.
Advantages and Disadvantages of CALL in Language Learning
😀The use of CALL to support in language learning provides students with the authenticity of the
input.
😀CALL, especially computer mediated communication or CMC, helps encourage foreign language
learners to produce comprehensible output.
😀CALL is able to provide learners with the kinds of information and
support that they require to complete individual tasks and to respond to the diversity of learner needs even
within a single classroom structure.
😀Learner-centered classes can be promoted by CALL.
Educational CALL Programs and ELT in Thailand
😀Tutorial programs are responsible for collecting, presenting and guiding information, teaching rules. Students can learn content through questions. When the students answer,
they receive immediate feedback.
😀Drill and Practice is to review the content background knowledge.The questions will be repeated
many times.
😀Demonstration is very helpful with selfdirected
learning. students will be encouraged to learn by
themselves.
😀Simulation or so-called problem solving is used, aiming to raise students’ critical thinking, discussion
skills and writing abilities
😀Games are used to provide a rich learning and teaching environment.
😀Testing is a tool for assessment and a method to determine what students know and do not know.
