The effects of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) instruction on the EFL/ESL classroom

Abstract

The purpose of this research synthesis was to identify the reported effects of Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) on students’ language proficiency. For this exploratory bibliographical research, twenty-one studies, accessed using online databases, were selected. With regards to the inclusion criteria, articles could be either empirical or theoretical studies. In addition, studies applied to the different levels of education were taken into account. One requirement for this study was the use of research articles published within the last 15 years given this approach is considered relatively new. In order to achieve this objective, the advantages and disadvantages of this approach were analyzed, as well as the perceptions and attitudes that the participants of the educational process presented. Research synthesis results showed that CALL is effective in developing and improving learners’ language skills and subskills. Furthermore, this approach presented more positive perceptions and positive attitudes than negative ones. The number of advantages were greater than the number of disadvantages. Finally, there were some recommendations based on the issues identified through the analysis of the data, which could serve for further research studies.