Learning about computer-assisted language learning: online tools and professional development

Abstract

The study reported in this chapter investigates computer-assisted language learning (CALL) practitioners' use of online tools and ways of developing their professionalism in the field of CALL. Participants in the study were members of an international association for CALL. They were invited to complete an online questionnaire on a voluntary basis. The questionnaire was employed to collect the participants' demographic information and self-reported data on the use of online tools. It also asked the participants to indicate how they keep up to date with what is happening in CALL. The results of the study indicate that the participants use web search engines, communication tools and social networking sites most frequently among twelve categorised online tools while most participants consider themselves as good or excellent users of the Internet. Many participants often read journal articles or books, read email list messages or connect with others in social networks to learn about new developments in CALL. They also regularly search the web and collect information from blog posts or email list messages. Findings contribute to our understanding of CALL practitioners' experiences with online tools and professional development activities and provide recommendations for teacher training for CALL

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