SLIM:A Template-based Second Language Instruction Management System

Abstract

Course Management Systems (CMSs) have been used worldwide by language educators for second language teaching and learning. Nevertheless, no CMS has been designed for specifically, for language instruction. In this context, there is a clear lack of subject-specific focus within the current generation of language management systems. This paper argues that the lack of support for language teaching and learning in current CMSs points to the need for an investigation on how to integrate such support into the design of CMSs. Based on a study carried out on language instructors in selected Malaysian universities, this paper presents a template-based CMS specifically design of ESL instruction in Malaysia known as SLIM (Second Language Instruction Management system developed by the authors. The templates are designed to facilitate online ESL activities related to the four skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening.