Using internet-based audio-graphic and video conferencing for language teaching and learning

In the early stages of CALL, courses were delivered predominantly in a text-based, one-directional mode. With the development of more elaborate web-based technologies so-called “interactive” components were then added. These included activities such as self-marking quizzes and tests along with mechanisms for learners and tutors to interact asynchronously through text – using e-mail, web-based discussion forums and so on. A logical next step, which has been explored and developed for a number of years now, is to use computers and the Internet to support synchronous interaction between learners and teachers. For language teaching, specifically, technologies that allow live voice interaction are of particular…