Computer-assisted language learning

Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) is succinctly defined in a seminal work by Levy (1997: p. 1) as "the search for and study of applications of the computer in language teaching and learning".^[1] CALL embraces a wide range of information and communications technology applications and approaches to teaching and learning foreign languages, from the "traditional" drill-and-practice programs that characterised CALL in the 1960s and 1970s to more recent manifestations of CALL, e.g. as used in a virtual learning environment and Web-based distance learning. It also extends to the use of corpora and concordancers, interactive whiteboards,^[2] Computer-mediated communication (CMC),^[3] language learning in virtual worlds, and mobile-assisted language learning (MALL).^[4]

The term CALI (computer-assisted language instruction) was in use before CALL, reflecting its origins as a subset of the general term CAI (computer-assisted instruction). CALI fell out of favour among language teachers, however, as it appeared to imply a teacher-centred approach (instructional), whereas language teachers are more inclined to prefer a student-centred approach, focusing on learning rather than instruction. CALL began to replace CALI in the early 1980s (Davies & Higgins 1982: p. 3)^[5]and it is now incorporated into the names of the growing number of professional associations worldwide.

An alternative term, technology-enhanced language learning (TELL),^[6] also emerged around the early 1990s: e.g. the TELL Consortium project, University of Hull.

The current philosophy of CALL puts a strong emphasis on student-centred materials that allow learners to work on their own. Such materials may be structured or unstructured, but they normally embody two important features: interactive learning and individualised learning. CALL is essentially a tool that helps teachers to facilitate the language learning process. It can be used to reinforce what has already been learned in the classroom or as a remedial tool to help learners who require additional support.

The design of CALL materials generally takes into consideration principles of language pedagogy and methodology, which may be derived from different learning theories (e.g. behaviourist, cognitive, constructivist) and second-language learning theories such as Stephen Krashen's monitor hypothesis.

Video. Conferencing

Video conferencing refers to conducting a video conference or video teleconference in which two or more sets of hardware and software interact while simultaneously transmitting and receiving video and audio signals from two or more geographic locations. Video conferencing may also involve sharing documents, various presentation materials, whiteboards, flip charts and similar group presentation visual aids. A telepresence system is most often used at the corporate or enterprise level and represents high-end video conferencing systems. Video conferencing is differentiated from video phone calls, which serve individuals as opposed to a conference. Video conferencing is also known as online video conferencing and PC video conferencing.

Video conferencing was established as early as the invention of the television, and consisted of two closed-circuit television systems using coaxial cable or radio transmission. NASA used video conferencing during the first manned space flight in 1961, with two radiofrequency links, one in each direction. TV news channels used the same technology for reporting from distant locations; thereafter, trucks with mounted satellite dishes provided mobile links for video conference transmissions. However, the technology was very expensive, so it was not used for business, education or telemedicine until many years later. By the 1980s, digital telephony became available using compressed video and audio transmissions. But it was not until 1984 that the first video conferencing systems were sold commercially by PictureTel Corp. In the 1990s, the expensive proprietary equipment that was previously required was replaced by new, standards-based technology for video conferencing, which became available to the general public at a much more reasonable cost. IP-based video conferencing also became possible around this time. The Winter Olympics of 1998 in Nagano, Japan, used the technology to broadcast part of the opening ceremonies across five continents in almost real time. In the 2000s, video conferencing became available at reasonable costs to any location with an Internet connection.

Copywriting

This article is about writing for advertisements and other forms of marketing communications. It is not to be confused with copyright.

Copywriting is the act of writing text for the purpose of advertising or other forms of marketing.^[1] The product, called copy, is written content that aims to increase brand awareness and ultimately persuade a person or group to take a particular action.

Copywriters help create billboards, brochures, catalogs, jingle lyrics, magazine and newspaper advertisements, sales letters and other direct mail, scripts for television or radiocommercials, taglines, white papers, social media posts, and other marketing communications.

They are generally known as website content writers or copywriters if their work appears mostly on the Internet. A content writer helps create online advertisements, web pages, email newsletters, blog posts and social media posts.

Cross discipline copywriters who look at the wider context of their work are called digital copywriters.^[2] The distinction is that these individuals consider the mechanics of the user journey, the external links that are included in the copy for search engine optimization and are highly focused towards creating online sales and dealing with technical issues such as bounce rate.

EmploymentEdit

Many copywriters are employed in advertising agencies, public relations firms, or copywriting agencies.

• Advertising agencies usually employ copywriters as part of a creative team in which they are partnered with art directorsor creative directors. The copywriter writes copy or script for an advertisement, based largely on information obtained from the client. The art director is responsible for visual aspects of the advertisement and, particularly in the case of print work, may oversee production. Either member of the team can come up with the overall idea (typically referred to as the concept) and the process of collaboration often improves the work.
• Copywriting agencies combine copywriting with a range of editorial and associated services that may include positioning and messaging consulting, social media, search engine optimization, developmental editing, copy editing, proofreading, fact checking, layout and design. The clients are usually large corporations.

Copywriters also work in-house for retail chains, book publishers or other big firms which advertise frequently. They can also be employed to write advertorials for newspapers, magazines, broadcasters and cable providers.

Some copywriters work as independent contractors, doing freelance writing for a variety of clients. They may work at a client's office, a coworking office, a coffeehouse, or from home.

Copywriters are similar to technical writersand the careers may overlap. Broadly speaking, however, technical writing is dedicated to informing readers rather than persuading them. For example, a copywriter writes an advertisement to sell a car, while a technical writer writes the operator's manual explaining how to use it.

What is a virtual classroom?

A virtual classroom is typically an online learningsystem where both the learners and tutors/teachers communicate to each other just like the real classroom but from different geographical locations. The system comprises of all the basic tools required to run effectively a classroom. Communication among the participants can be achieved in various ways like text chat, live video, live audio, and so on. Among the basic tools is the whiteboard, which is incredibly similar to the blackboard found in a real classroom. By and large, there is much application that supports this kind of learning and offers all the basic tools required. One of the best solutions is ezTalks Cloud Meeting app.

That being said, learning institutions that might be considering following this latest trend might want to take a look at some of the virtual classroom advantages and disadvantages. Let’s start with the benefits of virtual classroom:

Advantages of virtual classroom

1. Increased convenience

It is undeniable that virtual classroom removed the limitation of time and location, a common challenge in a traditional classroom. With uplift of these limitations, learners have the freedom to study and finish the coursework anytime, anywhere. Learners also have the freedom to engage with other on classroom topics, do the assignment, absorb class content, or take exams at a time or duration that best fits their schedule.

2. Effective time management

Learning online provides working class adults the idea environment needed to balance between work, family, and the demand of going back to school. If you are such a person, you will require a classroom that helps you manage your time effectively, and virtual classroom achieves it. Attending virtual classes at the comfort of your living room saves many hours that could otherwise be used to commute forth and back to classes on a campus.

3. Sharped digital skills

Another virtual classroom advantage that many people find to be very interesting is the sharpening of one’s digital skills. While increasing your skills and knowledge in your area of study, you are the same time sharpening your digital skills on some of the most sophisticated online learning solutions. As you progress learning in an online world, you will soon become highly productive and confident using interactive online learning tools ezTalks Cloud Meeting app, collaboration tool, teleconferencing solutions, and so on.

4. Affordable

Another virtual classroom benefits are looking from the affordability point of view. The cost required to set up a classroom and distance learning management system compare incredibly favorable with the cost of building or expanding additional real classrooms to take up extra students. These savings can typically be passed onto the learners, where they are required to pay less of the school fees.

5. Immediate feedback on exams and tests

Getting instant feedback on exams and tests is another great advantage of virtual classroom. If you are enrolled in an online degree program, you do not have to wait for days or weeks to receive your scores. Exams, assignments, or tests taken online are usually scored as soon the learner finishes. This helps in tracking the progress of the student and it indicates weak areas for improvement.

Disadvantages of virtual classroom

Though there certainly are not as many disadvantages as advantages, there’re some few elements of using a virtual classroom that some users might consider a shortcoming. Here below are a few of them:

1. The need for extra training

One disadvantage of virtual classroom is the fact some trainers and students are not confident using digital e-Learning tools. Some instructors face challenges in acquiring and adopting the technology and most of them report technical problems. Besides that, some online teachers have problems preparing study materials in the soft format. All these and much more may require additional support to get up and running. This explains why it may be necessary to have an IT support conducting training here and there.

2. Infrastructural challenges

Challenges related to infrastructure are considered as one of the main disadvantages of a virtual classroom. Initial adoption of the technology needs massive and good network infrastructure perhaps to carry heavy traffic. Although these days we have highly affordable solutions, the cost of installing such infrastructures is extremely high and some institution might not afford.

Critical pedagogy

Critical pedagogy is a philosophy of education and social movement that has developed and applied concepts from critical theory and related traditions to the field of education and the study of culture.^[1]Advocates of critical pedagogy view teaching as an inherently political act, reject the neutrality of knowledge, and insist that issues of social justice and democracy itself are not distinct from acts of teaching and learning.^[2]The goal of critical pedagogy is emancipationfrom oppression through an awakening of the critical consciousness, based on the Portuguese term conscientização. When achieved, critical consciousness encourages individuals to affect change in their world through social critique and political action.

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