Abstract
This paper investigates the extent to which Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) contributes academically and pedagogically to the performance of students majoring English as a Foreign Language (EFL). The paper’s main objective is to explore the extent to which CALL is effective in developing the linguistic and communicative competence of EFL students in the skill of reading. This paper uses both quantitative and qualitative approaches in the process of data collection. As an empirical study, the sample in this study was 47 students studying English at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University. The participants were classified into two groups: experimental and control; each of which has been assigned specific reading activities. The experimental group has been allocated technological learning, by means of using the computer programs of SnagitTM, Screencast; whereas the control group has been assigned traditional learning, i.e. without using computer. Results revealed that the use of CALL has more positive effects on the learning outcomes of the experimental group than those pertaining to the control group. This, in turn, accentuates the fact that the use and application of CALL into EFL contexts improves the students’ learning outcomes concerning the skill of reading. The study recommends further integration of computer software into the designation of the different EFL courses.
Highlights
The overwhelming use and application of Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) significantly influences the process of teaching and learning in all fields and disciplines in general, and in teaching and learning English as a foreign language (EFL) in particular
This is because the core concern of the study is to monitor and explore the impact of using CALL on the performance of EFL students, which necessitates the analytical focus to be on the experimental group rather than on the control one
This paper investigated the impact of CALL software represented by the programs of SnagitTM and Screencast on the performance of Saudi EFL students at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University concerning the skill of reading
Summary
The overwhelming use and application of CALL (computer-assisted language learning) significantly influences the process of teaching and learning in all fields and disciplines in general, and in teaching and learning English as a foreign language (EFL) in particular. The employment of computer technologies in learning has caused unprecedented advancement beyond the limits of traditional and conventional sources of knowledge [1], [2]. Educational technology dominates the process of learning and teaching EFL courses in the Saudi universities, in recent years. This computer technology exceeds the boundaries of knowledge to the extent that contributes to the education of language skills and linguistic courses [3], [4]. As one innovative manifestation of technological advancement in learning, computer-assisted language learning (CALL) is not intended to replace the traditional classroom instruction; its main concern is to enhance
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