CALL Policy
General
In the past few years, the Language Centre has focussed on investigating and implementing new computer assisted language learning (CALL) applications by means of internal innovation projects and participation in national projects, like NAP and Intuit. New concepts, like 'Blended Learning', 'the Toolbox' and the 'Course Dossier' have been developed in these projects and are currently being improved and implemented in the different departments of the Language Centre.
Many of the plans outlined in the CALL policy of 2006 have been realised in the past few years. These plans included a second language lab, innovation of the writing skills programmes, conversion to online testing and the implementation of the Blended Learning concept. Furthermore, various CALL tools have successfully contributed to autonomous learning for groups that were expected to master certain parts of their language skills on their own.
As mentioned above, the different departments of the Language Centre have been involved in research and implementation of CALL applications in various ways. Most of the investigated applications turned out to be useful for language instruction. Besides this, the Language Centre has been working on the ideal blend of autonomous learning and classroom instruction and will continue to do so in the future.
Because the implementation and the use of CALL applications within the Language Centre has taken a quantum leap in recent years, less emphasis will be put on the implementation of new CALL components in the (near) future. Instead, more attention will be paid to optimizing, fine-tuning and updating currently used applications; finding the right balance between instruction and autonomous learning; increasing the efficiency of internal projects; and exchanging knowledge between teachers.
Basic Principles CALL policy
The current state of affairs as regards CALL within the Language Centre has led to a number of policy choices, the most important of which are summarised below. These choices tie in with Tilburg University's Educational Vision and Strategic Plan:
Following the implementation of various CALL applications, much attention will be paid to optimizing the use of these applications and keeping the developed educational materials up-to-date in the coming years. In addition, ICT will continue to play a major role within the language learning proces. Research will be done to determine whether the intended use of ICT tools matches the actual use.
Internally, more attention will be paid to dissemination with regard to experience and knowledge gained from participation in projects. University-wide, the Language Centre aims at improving students' and teachers' awareness of recently developed LC websites and language resources.
To be able to keep up with the current developments in the field of CALL, it is important that there is ample opportunity for training and expertise development, e.g. by means of workshops, instructions, manuals and personal coaching, as well as participation in national projects and exchange of expertise and experience with other universities.
CALL projects which fit the Language Centre's policy will be stimulated by means of an allocated annual sum. Besides this, the Language Centre aims at participating in externally financed projects if possible.
For more information about the Language Centre's projects, please contact the Language Centre's CALL coordinator, Anne-Marie van Hoof, (013-4663064).
November 2008