English/Linguistics 526, Spring 2001, Professor C. A. Chapelle, Iowa State University--Updated April 4, 2001


Computer-Assisted Language Learning

Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) is defined by Mike Levy as "the search for and study of applications of the computer in language teaching and learning" (Levy, 1997, p. 1). This expression and the acronym "CALL" were adopted in the early 1980's to refer to a range of computer uses in second language teaching and learning. Other terms have been introduced such as Web-enhanced language learning (WELL) or network-based language teaching (NBLT), each with its own nuance of meaning, but CALL has been most resilient as an overarching term to identify this area in part because some of the standing institutions in the area have adopted it. Institutions include professional organizations such as the European professional association, EuroCALL, its journal ReCALL, and other journals such as CALL Journal.

These and other professional materials on CALL were examined in a post-graduate seminar at Iowa State University during the first half of 2001. Participants reviewed a collection of journals, books, and Web sites containing information and professional materials on CALL. You can access these reviews by clicking below. Participants also prepared examples of CALL activities, which you can see by clicking below.

Book Reviews
Journal Reviews
Website Reviews
 CALL Activities


Syllabus Spring '03 (This is a Word document)