TASK 2 ARTICLE REVIEW

TITLE

The advantages and disadvantages of computer technology in second language acquisition

JOURNAL-VOLUME:

Doctoral Forum, National Journal for Publishing and Mentoring Doctoral Student Research, Volume 3 Number 1, 2006.

Taken from ERIC website

AUTHORS:

1. Cheng-Chieh Lai

PhD Program Student in Educational Leadership, Prairie View A&M University

2. William Allan Kristonis, PhD

Professor of PhD program in Educational Leadership Prairie View A&M University, visiting lecturer University of Oxford, distinguished alumnus Central Washington University.

The article explains the advantages and disadvantages of computer technology in learning a second language. The authors stated that computer has become an important tool in second language learning instructional theory. To fully utilize this tool, the authors promote the usage of Computer Assisted Language Learning in classrooms to further enhance the students’ ability in learning the second language. According to Perrett (1995), “if students are provided with the opportunities to use language and learning strategies in the second language, and some training or explanation in their application, they can develop these strategies through exposure to and experience in the second language”, (Cheng-Cheah Lai, 2006). The authors further explain the need to identify the benefits and drawbacks of using computers in classroom so that teachers and students alike can apply computer skills appropriately and use computer assisted language learning programs at their own wills. There are five advantages of computer technology. One, computers provide more independence from classroom traditional orientation. Second, computers and its attached language learning programs provide a wonderful stimuli for second language learning. Third, computers can capture, analyze and present data on students’ performance during learning process. Fourth, random access to web pages would break the linear flow of instruction. And fifth, many concepts and cognitions are difficult to express orally, and through using computers, the use of images greatly make up for this shortage. On the other hand, the disadvantages are as follows. First, computers increase educational costs and harm academia quality. Second, it is necessary for both learners and teachers to have basic technology knowledge before they apply computer technology in classroom. Third, software of computer assisted language learning programs is still imperfect. And fourth, computers cannot handle unexpected learning situations.

The journal is truly inspiring. It interests me in many ways, and one of them is it allows me to think that computers do benefits educators but at the same time puts up a hindrance in teaching. This article keeps me asking myself; do computers proves to be more beneficial or more of a hindrance, or is it worth my time to use technology in the classroom? These questions now have answers, thanks to this article. To me, this article is well written and well presented with fresh ideas. But the only weakness is that this article lacks in statistic. It is not a research paper, I do realize that, but citing statistics from past research here and there greatly supports the authors’ ideas. I suggest, in my own limited and inexperienced point of view, the authors to include statistical evidence and/or teachers and students personal testimonial in supporting their claims. This journal greatly inspires me to use technology in my classroom, if I have the opportunity. Computers are the trend nowadays, and to ignore this man-made gift is like defying the rule of gravity. For me, computers do help in teaching and learning in the classroom through the use of visual and graphic aids, it will greatly enhance learning in the classroom. All the advantages presented in the article are true if we, as educators use computers effectively. This article also can and will change the perception of computers in Malaysian educational setting. Most teachers do not rely on the use of technology in the classroom because it requires a lot of preparation time, waste energy and inefficient. Yes, these are the disadvantages of computers in general, but it will remain to be disadvantages if there are no changes being made. Computers are flawed only because men are flawed. Computers are great tools for educational purposes, we should turn it into our advantage if we want to improve the condition of our local education standard. Let us all try our best for the betterment of our local educational setting. Let us move forward, accept the changes and applied it in the classroom. When we stop changing, we stop growing.