Abstract:

Graham Davies' "Using Computers in Language Learning" (with a separate section on ESL by John Higgins), is for the most part a useful guide through the maze of programming languages, authoring systems, exercise formats, etc., which face the teacher contemplating the use of computers for language learning. Unfortunately, however, much of the information in the text refers to British sources, limiting its usefulness to the American teacher. A more serious flaw is the underlying assumption that computers are best suited for mechanical drill, thus freeing the teacher for communicative activities. The reviewer suggests that the continued use of computers in this fashion may well lead to the demise of CALL before experimenters have had an opportunity to explore its full potential.

Author: John Underwood