Students’ Attitudes and Perceptions towards Computer-Assisted Language Learning

Abstract

Research in the field of CALL has provided evidence for the benefits of using computer-based learning activities in the language classroom (Selfe & Hilligoss, 1994; Pennington, 1996; Beauvois, 1997). Furthermore other researchers assert that computers create a better learning environment (Frisch, 1995), can help students improve their skills (Joiner, 1997 and Martinez-Lage, 1997) and learn foreign languages easier (Bush, 1997) and can make students like their lessons more and take less time to learn something (Bush, 2000). Therefore studying students’ attitudes and perceptions towards computers in the classroom can help us see if there are positive perspectives on implementing and using this promising medium in the classroom. A total of 90 high school students (N=90), 48 boys and 42 girls, 13-15 years old (M=14.00, SD=0.821) participated in the study. All students were asked to complete a questionnaire. By analyzing the data it is evident that students enjoy using such a medium as a part of their lesson and as they state computers offer them more motivation to learn English. All in all, the study generally reveals positive views on behalf of the students and lets us conclude that there are positive prospects for using computers in the classroom in the future.