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ERIC Number: ED273131
Record Type: RIE
Publication Date: 1986-Apr
Pages: 19
Abstractor: N/A
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Do Computers Speak Our Language? "Auf Deutsch, bitte!"
Jedan, Dieter
This paper presents results of a review of computer software programs available for German instruction and of informal interviews with German faculty in high schools, colleges and universities with regard to their computer needs. Most computer software currently available commercially is of the drill and practice type, with a focus on grammar and vocabulary learning, not on reading comprehension, dictation, translation, and other skills. Some excellent in-house courseware has been developed by university foreign language departments which could be available through networking with colleagues in those departments. (Addresses and contact persons are provided in the text of the document.) It is probable that the following technological developments will be available in the near future: (1) inclusion of more imaginative software packages with new foreign language textbook editions and releases; (2) quality voice synthesis in the foreign language directly from the computer; (3) error specific programs that tell the students about their errors; (4) pronunciation assessment software; and (5) programs whereby students can carry on a conversation with the computer. Until software that speaks German is available, teachers are advised to familiarize themselves with computers and their potential, establish networks and newsletters, and sponsor workshops and demonstrations to familiarize themselves with the computer technology and software currently available. A guide to foreign language software vendors and a selected list of software in foreign language are appended. (MSE)
Publication Type: Information Analyses; Speeches/Meeting Papers
Education Level: N/A
Audience: Practitioners
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Note: Version of a paper presented at the Kentucky Foreign Language Conference (Lexington, KY, April 24-26, 1986).