Yancho

CALL is Computer Assisted Language Learning and TALL is Technology Assisted Language Learning (if I remember correctly). We saw some samples of TALL in our class. I think having computer programs to help with the drill and practice of a language is invaluable. Because, like any learning, language learning simply takes practice. Naturally, a language is best taught through saturation in situ, but in the absence of a language-saturated environment, tools like computer assisted learning can really ease the load for a learner. Having the words recorded spoken by a native speaker and represented onscreen simultaneously, with the ability to record and to hear and compare your own sounds to the natively spoken sounds is great. It's a cliche, but CALL or TALL are not a panacea, won't solve all language learning problems. But, the tools are fantastic -- especially by a motivated person who is willing to put in the time. I think it is better than other forms of self-guided learning...