Week 1: Reflections of CALL

  In our first CALL class, I learned that TELL (Technology Enhanced Language Learning) refers to    learning a language through the use of digital technologies. For example, the IELTS test assesses all   four language skills—reading, writing, speaking, and listening—to ensure both reliability and   validity. An alternative term for TELL is CALL (Computer-Assisted Language Learning) and    MALL (Mobile-Assisted Language Learning).

  I also learned that the collection of living language, both written and spoken, used by people is known   as a corpus. A well-known corpus is the British National Corpus (BNC), which helps explore   language usage patterns. For instance, if I want to analyze the frequent use of the “t” sound or a   specific phrase in the English language, I can use BNC. Additionally, I came across Vaccaro, a simple   online tool used for recording and sharing voice messages, which is beneficial for speaking practice.

 TELL includes resources such as BNC and COCA (Corpus of Contemporary American English),   both of which aid language learners in understanding real-life language usage. I also learned that   language learning involves four key skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. If a person is     proficient in any one of these skills, they will be proficient in that particular aspect of the language. To   enhance the language learning process, interaction and engagement play a crucial role in acquiring a     new language.

 Moreover, language learning helps in skill development and includes grammar, covering both lexical   and syntactical knowledge. This session helped me understand how technology plays an essential     role  in language learning and skill enhancement.

• On the second day of our CALL class, I learned that a blog refers to a static website where I can post content, whether it be text or video. A blog is also useful for advertising goods and items. I discovered that a blog created on Blogger, a platform provided by Google, follows the format (name.blogspot.com). Additionally, Blogger can be used to exploit and manipulate language learning, making it a valuable tool for both teachers and learners.

  I also learned about PLN (Personal Learning Network), which consists of a group of people or resources that help individuals learn and grow professionally. Furthermore, TELL (Technology-Enhanced Language Learning) enables learners to acquire language skills without a teacher by using digital technology.

  Another key concept I explored was the difference between synchronous and asynchronous learning. Synchronous learning, such as Zoom meetings, happens in real-time but has limitations as it requires learners to attend at a specific time. On the other hand, asynchronous learning, like Google Classroom, offers flexibility, allowing learners to access materials at any time without time restrictions.

   I also discovered that blogging helps improve reading, writing, and keyboard skills while promoting social interaction through comments. Blogs are considered authentic materials because they are not specifically designed for language teaching but can still be effectively used for learning. As a language teacher or learner, I can utilize authentic material to enhance my language learning experience. Lastly, I learned that HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language) is the standard language used for creating web pages. On the third day of our CALL class, I learned how to create and manage a blog using Blogger, a platform by Google. First, I discovered that a Google email account is required to sign in to Blogger using an email and password. Once signed in, I had to title my blog based on my field of interest, which appears on the top left of the blog.

  Next, I set up an address, which generated a URL in the format (name.blogspot.com). I also explored how to customize the blog by editing the theme and display settings to personalize its appearance. After setting up the blog, I learned how to add posts in the form of text or video content. For text content, I had to use the Compose View, while for video content, I had to switch to the HTML View.

  I also learned that I can edit my blog later and even post someone else’s content on it. For example, I can copy a TED Talks video and paste it into my blog using the HTML View. Additionally, I can share my blog through different platforms like WhatsApp, making it accessible to a wider audience. I also discovered the importance of links, as they aid in exploring websites easily. Now, I can copy and paste links to videos that I want to include in my blog, further enhancing its content and interactivity.