Digitalenklas: New Opportunities for Language Learning on the Web Worldcall 2003 Banff, Alberta, Canada Petra Heck & Alessandra Corda Tilburg University / University of Leiden May 2003
Introduction Aim: to further the use of computers in the learning of languages in HE. Focus: VLE’s (Blackboard and WebCT) in conjunction with specific language learning software (Ellips) Listening skills, pronunciation practice, and grammar for English, Spanish, Dutch, and Arabic Partners: Universities of Utrecht, Leiden, Groningen, Tilburg Edufocus Website:
The Web and VLE’s What is the most efficient way of using ICT in language teaching? CALL and WELL: cognitive-oriented and constructive- oriented Large-scale introduction of VLE’s Easy to use Password-protected Not specifically developed for language teaching Support for task-oriented activities, based on authentic resources Language Web Quests
Hoofdpagina quests
Introductie gezondheidszorg
Web based CALL and Ellips VLE’s vs. CALL software: fewer possibilities for Interactive exercises Flexible study paths Adaptation to individual student levels Feedback Why Ellips? Semi-adaptive Full Unicode support Full database support for students’ tracking Use of metadata based on the Common European Framework search and (re)use of language materials Record voice input by students
Ellips Closed-type exercises for self-study Access through Blackboard and WebCT General features: Extensive feedback Use of audio and video throughout Record voice input by students Import existing content from Hologram
Use of CEF in Ellips Need for uniform description of content To facilitate re-use To make the adaptivity system work Metadata based on CEF Made available by Language Centre, University of Ghent Possibility to link up with an increasingly important framework
CEF metadata General overview Details Activities Competences General competences Communicative competences Topics CEF metadata for each exercise and content page
Implementation Implementation Ellips planned to start December next Staff training and discipline required Metadata essential for creating re-usable materials Consortium for exchange of materials and continued support after the project ends Consortium open to interested institutions