Teacher Education in CALL
Chapter 2. Assessing CALL Teacher Training: What are We Doing and What Could We Do Better?
Greg Kessler, Ohio University, USA
Abstract
As the use of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) becomes more
commonplace within language classrooms, language teachers require appropriate
preparation. They need to be able to make decisions about the use of CALL,
identify appropriate CALL solutions for their students and be prepared to
comprehend the evolving role of CALL methods and materials in the language
classroom. This chapter identifies current realities in CALL practice and
teacher preparation. Through focus groups, interviews and survey data, the
author identifies perceptions of the role of CALL in language instruction among
language teachers and teacher trainers. While most agree that CALL is a valuable
asset within language instruction, evidence suggests there is a deficiency of
CALL preparation within formal language teacher preparation programs. The author
presents the results of these investigations and makes recommendations to better
integrate CALL into language teacher preparation.
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Updated September 12, 2006