ERIC Number: EJ1013917
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013-May
Pages: 27
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0742-7778
EISSN: N/A
Enhancing the Autonomous Use of CALL: A New Curriculum Model in EFL
Smith, Karen; Craig, Hana
CALICO Journal, v30 n2 p252-278 May 2013
This action research study evaluates the effectiveness of a CALL Learner Autonomy (CALL LA) course at a Japanese university. The "C course" blends face-to-face instruction and independent study in a CALL environment. It aims to enhance learners' autonomous use of CALL in the acquisition of English as a Foreign Language (EFL). In this study, three learning support aids were trialed: the Learner Passport, the e-Language Learning Portfolio and the e-Learner Self-Reflection Diary. The participant- researchers examined the course using data from the trial materials, observation, their own reflexive practice, learner questionnaires, interviews, artifacts and learner self-reflections. Findings indicate that teachers' and learners' consciousness was raised about what is expected of users in the autonomous use of CALL in a classroom environment and in a Self-Access Centre. The study also shows an improvement in learners' planning, organizing, tracking, and evaluation of their autonomous use of CALL resources, and that regular and critical learner self-reflection is a key factor
contributing to a positive shift in study culture. It recommends the conversion of the Learner Passport to an online, interactive format and the course-wide implementation of the three learning support aids as an incorporated package. (Contains 4 tables and 2 figures.)
Descriptors: Action Research, English (Second Language), English Language Learners, Second Language Learning, Independent Study, Learner Engagement, Interviews, Questionnaires, Portfolio Assessment, Teaching Methods, Curriculum Design, Metacognition, Computer Assisted Instruction, Instructional Effectiveness, Personal Autonomy, Program Evaluation, Foreign Countries, Observation
Computer Assisted Language Instruction Consortium. 214 Centennial Hall, 601 University Drive, San Marcos, TX 78666. Tel: 512-245-1417; Fax: 512-245-9089; e-mail: info@calico.org: Web site: http://calico.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Japan
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A