The document discusses the use of CD-ROMs and DVDs in technology-based language learning, detailing their storage capacities, functions, and class activities. It emphasizes the advantages of multi-sensory learning and self-study, while also evaluating the effectiveness and suitability of these tools for different learner demographics. Additionally, it covers computer-based testing, highlighting its benefits such as user-friendliness and faster results, alongside challenges like ensuring reliability in assessment.

1. ULUDAG UNIVERSITY
ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING DEPARTMENT
TECHNOLOGY - BASED COURSEWARE
COMPUTER ASSISTED
LANGUAGE LEARNING
- AYLİN AYDIN -

2. CD-ROMs and DVDs

3. CD-ROMs
What is a CD-ROM?

4. CD ROM, stands for Compact Disc Read Only Memory, it is a type of
storing data that goes up to 1 GB. It is an optical disk that has the
capacity to store data, music files, video files etc. Below is a picture of
the front and back of a standard CD-ROM drive.

5. Its primary function is to transfer software onto
the hard drive of the computer. A single one has
the average capacity to store the memory of about
700 floppy disk, which is equal to 3,000,000 text
pages. Once it is filled up with data, new data
cannot be entered on it.
It can be used as reading and listening material, recording for
pronunciation and speaking, and grammar and vocabulary activities like
matching vocabulary to definitions, drag and drop exercises, gap-
fills, crosswords and so on.

6. ADVANTAGES
• Working alone
• Testing materials
• Mini dictionary
• Pronunciation
• Voice recognition software

7. Voice recognition software:
The learner listens to a word or short sentence and then
records his/her voice while repeating the word or
sentence. The learner’s output is then compared to a
‘model’ of correct pronunciation and the results
displayed to the learner.
But it is important to note that voice recognition
software is not always reliable in terms of feedback and
accents.

9. DVDs, stand for Digital Versatile Disc, are of
the same dimensions as compact discs
(CDs), but are capable of storing more than
six times as much data.
They have much greater storage capacity than CD-ROMs. Its
main uses are video and data storage. DVDs also allow the
users to choose various language options.

10. One particularly useful feature of DVDs is that there is often
an option to view subtitles along with a video dialogue. It is
an important feature for English classes. There are a few
ideas about the use of subtitles in classroom environment:
• During first viewing, the subtitle is hidden. How much the
learners understood can then be checked with
comprehension questions and the dialogue played a final
time with the subtitles displayed.

11. • After listening to the DVD dialogue, learners can
transcribe them and check right version of it.
• Learners watch a short DVD dialogue between two
characters with the audio switched off, reading the
subtitles several times. Pairs are then invited to each take
a character role, and to read the subtitles for their
character at the same time the dialogue is played again
still with the audio switched off. This can be repeated
several times.

12. Using CD-ROMs with learners in the classroom
There are several types of activities that can be done to integrate a
CD-ROM into your lessons:
• In the single computer classroom or school, pairs of learners can
take turns to do a few CD-ROM activities. For instance; drag and
drop activities.
• With the a help of a projector, you can do whole class activities. This
can lead learners to use the potential of technology at home.
• If the school has a computer room, the teacher can programme in
regular short sessions. During class time, students can work alone
or in pairs for once a week. Concentration problem should be
considered.

13. EVALUATING CD-ROMs
CD-ROMs are often cited as being particularly motivating for
learners, as they use new technology provide a multi-
sensory alternative to paper -based classroom
work,encourage self-study and autonomous learning,and
can expose learning to authentic language via audio and
video.CD-ROMS have now been around since the late 1980s

14. CD-ROMs are being increasingly superseded by newer
tecnologies such as blogs, podcasts,instant messaging.The
one big advantage that CD-ROMs have over these newer
Internet –based technologies is that learners can work with
CD-ROMs offline ,and thus not reliant on an Internet
connection. We will now consider how to evaluate CD-ROMs.
We should ask the following questions.
What age group is the CD-ROM aim at? Is the content
suitable for adults,adolescents or younger learners?

15. What linguistic level is the content aimed at-
beginners,elementary, intermediate or advantaced?
What kind of English is being focused on,eg.business
English,general English?
How interesting are the materials and how well are they
presented?
What skills and language areas are focused
on,readin,writing,listening, pronunciation,vocabulary or
grammar?
How much multimedia content,especially video and
audio,is there?
How is feedback on activities given to learners?

16. How is testing integrated into the CD-ROM,how dolearners
measure their own progress through the materials?
What additional resources are provided,for example a
dictionary or glossary,grammar paradigms and
explanations?
Are there non-linguistic areas,such as intercultural
communication skills learner training ordifferences in
learning styles?
Does the CD-ROM meet any accessibility laws you may
face?

17. Finally, we might want to consider what using a
CD-ROM really adds to your learners’language
learning experience.
We should discuss their value with our learners
directly and encourage learners to keep a
learning log of their self-access work and
achievements.

18. COMPUTER –BASED TESTING
The format of a computer-based test does not differ from the
paper one – learners complete a test with a keyboard and
mouse. The main advantages of computer-based tests are
user-friendliness and faster access to results.EFL learners can
now take a range of different tests examinations via a
computer. Some examples:
 Learners can be given diagnostic test on a computer before
they start a course.This assesses their language levels.this
information can then be used to assign the learner to a certain
class or language programme.

19.  One commercial diagnostic text is the Quick Placement Test
(QPT),which is available both on CD-ROM and in a pen
paper version.learners answer multiple –choice questions
which test their listening,reading and grammar skills.
 The other is adaptive test.
 Computer adaptive testing constructs individualized
examinations for each candidate based on their
demonstrated level of knowledge and skill. The
advantages are that all candidates take examinations
which they find challenging improving the overall
reliability of the examinations.

20.  The advantages of the format of computer adaptive
tests is the same as the fixed form tests with regard to
1) administration of one item per screen with visuals
and images attached; 2) entering responses directly into
the computer; and, 3) testing at convenient computer
centers.
 Learners can take simple progress tests on CD-
ROM.These tests will be based on the work that the
learners have been doing in their coursebooks.Test are
often included in the learner’s coursebook CD-ROM ,or
test master CD-ROMs are made available for
teachers.they can then use ready-made tests.

21. ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF
COMPUTER-BASED TESTING
What are the advantages of computer based testing?
o more exam sessions available within a year
o use of technology candidates are familiar with
o attractive and user-friendly interface
o online timer on the screen
o access to help functions during the test
o easiness in editing answers on screen during the test
o use of headphones which ensures high quality of sound and
allows candidates to adjust the volume to their needs
o faster access to results on-line
o certificate identical to the one received after the paper-based
exam and recognised by the same institutions.

22. What are the disadvantages of computer based testing?
 Ensuring reliability in marking of extended pieces of
writing and in assessing speaking.
 Initial investment costs in computer-based testing tend
to be high.
 How does the examiner know that the person taking the
tests online is indeed who they claim to be?

23. For language teacher, the main experience
of computer –based testing is using computer –
based progress tests or CD-ROMs on the market
that provide learners with exam practice that
mimics the real thing.