CALL Research Perspectives

Book excerpt: CALL Research Perspectives creates a foundation for the study and practice of computer-assisted language learning and provides an overview of ways to conceptualize and to conduct research in CALL. Its core assumptions are that all approaches to research have a place, and that researchers, teachers, and students all have a role to play in the study of computer-enhanced language learning. This is not a how-to-do-research text. Written by top researchers in the field, it offers an open-ended view of what educators need to know and be able to do to answer questions that they have. It is intended to be easy to read, to provide resources for readers to explore the ideas further, and to be non-prescriptive in presenting suggestions for CALL research. The text explores problems with current CALL research and suggests ways that teachers and other researchers can avoid such problems; presents both commonly known and less explored theories that provide a foundation for CALL and language research; and addresses other issues and ideas that affect research outcomes. An outstanding feature of CALL Research Perspectives is that it complements not only other CALL texts but also research texts of all kinds. The issues found in each chapter parallel the issues in other research texts, making this text useful for addressing the needs of teachers and researchers at different levels and in different contexts. In addition, the consistent format throughout makes it accessible to readers with a variety of backgrounds. Each chapter includes an introduction, a review of relevant literature, a set of examples and/or suggestions for conducting research in CALL, and conclusions. The consistent format is intended for ease of use, but the content of chapters varies according to the author. This is intentional; it is a strength of the book that readers can hear the voices of the authors and listen to their understandings of the perspectives presented. It is the editors' hope that they will be inspired to seek out other voices as well.