Web-based Language Teaching

This paper summarizes researches we had made about learning and teaching with web-based tools on language classes. Results demonstrate that practices in syllabi and mother tongue classes still focus on traditional methodological approaches, even if younger people live undoubtedly in a digital era.

In the 21st century, there is a near ubiquity of web-connected devices amongst language learners, and the considerable success of mass market web-based language learning applications shows a strong demand for such tools. Where does this leave EFL educators wanting to tap into the global trend, and create their own innovative web applications for learners of English? Having established the global demand for web-based digital English learning tools, this paper discusses the platforms and languages that can be used by English educators themselves to create new online learning activities. The recent development of JavaScript as both a client-side and server-side language is discussed, and the possibility of integrating language learning web-apps with a range of powerful Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) is highlighted. " Lyric Learner " , a web applications developed by the author, is briefly examined, and a list of resources for those interested in learning to code is provided. In the second part of the paper, a range of theoretical underpinnings for language learning applications are considered, including structuralist, communicative, and interactional viewpoints. The argument is maintained that engaging and effective web applications can be created under each of these approaches to language pedagogy. The paper concludes with an invitation to English language educators to create their own web applications using sound theoretical principles and technological practices.

The overall aim of the thesis is to depict several selected theoretical and practical aspects of language testing placed in the environment of the world wide web. While specialised literature dealing with various matters of both traditional paper-based and modern computer-based testing is plentiful, there is still a considerable lack of materials concerning the most recent web-based language testing. Reflecting on this situation, the thesis addresses three main groups of theoretical as well as practical issues: determination of the distinctive features of web-based testing, specification of the most widely employed item types and testing techniques, and identification of the most common web-based testing tools and programs.