Computer-Based Language Learning Increasing
Survey documents increasing use of classroom computers for language learning and reading activities.
Califone released the results today of a month-long survey whereby more than two thirds of all respondents said they use classroom computers for audio-assisted language learning or reading activities more than 30% of the time. 28% of all participants said they use their computers for these activities more than 50% of the time and 8% of all participants use them more than 70% of the time for audio-assisted language learning or reading activities.
The growth of this new style of hybrid listening center underscores the introduction last year of the company’s USB plug jackbox and its acceptance for language learning and student-generated podcasts. Fairfax County Public Schools in Fairfax, Virginia is one of the largest school districts in the United States and its students and educators have been using the USB jackbox in their foreign language labs to create video clips with voice-overs in the languages they teach, such as Spanish and Chinese. Aron Sterling, one of the district’s School-Based Technology Specialists, said they were “Looking for hardware that could help tie together several technologies – such as microphones, headphones and computers – to create a learning center for the foreign language department and to help support the district’s goal in encouraging students to use their critical thinking skills, we decided to purchase the USB Jackbox (1216USB) from Califone. The important part is that students are not noticing the technology, since it works seamlessly with the other parts of the learning center, allowing the students to concentrate on their lessons.”
