Computers and Language Learning

Abstract

Have you ever dreamed of a new kind of textbook? A book which you can change, for example, whenever you feel like it by putting in a new page, a new line or just a different word. Or a book which has moving pictures — or better still, pictures which you can make move in any direction and at any speed you want. What about a book which can make sounds? Or a book that can check your answers, keep a record of your progress and give you encouragement? A book that can answer your questions, respond to what you tell it, create or analyze texts for you? A computer can give you all this — and lots more — but it is, in effect, a kind of superior book, not a miracle.