Abstract:

A project in programming for learning at the University of Illinois illustrates several aspects of successful CAI in language teaching. In this project, individualization allows the students to determine their own rate, path, feedback, and schedule. Active practice and the privacy of the student is emphasized in these materials which leads to greater educational efficiency. In addition to the obvious benefits to the students, there is less student anxiety, greater motivation, and a greater feeling of success. Teachers using CAI can keep their students more to the task and still have time to engage in activities with their students to broaden their cultural foundation for language learning. CAI also allows the teacher to be more innovative and as a byproduct become more a part of the computer age. This article is based on a presentation given at the January 1984 CALICO Symposium in Baltimore, Maryland.

Author: Constance Curtin, Stanley Shinall