Call and linguistic

Materials Development in Three Italian CALL Projects: Seeking an Optimal Mix Between In-Class and Out-Of-Class Learning

Mike Levy
Claire Kennedy
Griffith University

Abstract:
This paper considers the design and development of CALL materials with the aim of achieving an optimal mix between in-class and out-of-class learning in the context of teaching Italian at an Australian university. The authors discuss three projects in relation to the following themes: (a) conceptions of the in-class/out-of-class relationship, (b) pedagogical motivations for out-of-class CALL materials development, (c) the nature of the language-learning materials required for different technologies, and (d) the concomitant demands on the language-teacher-developer. The three projects are: (a) Italia oggi, a videodisc-based facility for self-access work with television news; (b) the Italian SMS project, a mobile learning project using bulk text messaging; and (c) La mensa, a class blog designed to support reading and writing practice. The paper concludes that our conceptions of CALL materials development--and the role of the teacher-as-materials-developer--need to be revised and extended in line with the diverse range of technologies currently in use. This has major implications for teacher education and learner training and CALL.