The capabilities of computers for language learning

Abstract

Computer as a medium for language learning has been acknowledged by many educators in the past years. Using computers for language learning has proved not only interesting but also positive and stimulating for many language teachers and learners. The present paper tries to show the impact/s of computers in the field of second and foreign language learning. First of all, the advantages inherent in the use of computers for language learning will be discussed. Secondly, the technical preparation and requirements of language teachers and learners for the use of computers will be presented. And finally, the application of computers in the development of the four language skills will be analysed. We illustrate the computer capabilities to support different classroom activities, group-work and pair-work tasks; independent work; to stimulate student-centered learning and the individualization in language learning.