In Favor of a Model of Didactic Ergonomics

Abstract

This first chapter will introduce the didactic ergonomics approach and present the related computer-mediated language learning model. We will first consider how to tackle the problem of describing reality in all its complexity, as originally developed by Edgar Morin (1990). The initial review of theories will contribute to a better understanding of the nature of complexity and will eventually lead us to advocate a multi-referenced approach to learning. We will then proceed to define the concept of didactic ergonomics (Bertin 2000, 2001). We will show how the original didactic ergonomics model we suggest is articulated with current CALL research and how it can help bridge the gap between theoretical description and actual practice in the field.