Abstract:

The LLP Comenius project named Identifying the Logical structure of languages by use of new Interactive mobile services, new diagnostic training methods for development of Key competences, and new Evaluation methods introducing assessment for learning practices (iLike), started 1st December 2012. The aim of the project iLike is to introduce a new and improved way of teaching students the logic behind languages.

Language students often struggle to understand the logic in foreign languages grammar, reducing their ability to reproduce and create texts on their own. There are several reasons for this, everything from the methodology to lack of motivation might influence the situation. Since the 1980s, Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) has become one of the fastest-growing areas of development in language learning and teaching. In practice, there has been a considerable classroom use of generic computer applications, not developed for the special purposes of language learning (e.g. Microsoft Word and PowerPoint), although there has been great interest in designing software specifically for the purpose of exploiting the potential of new technologies in Foreign Language Training (FLT). CALL now handles an enormous range of activities in all FLT skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing), but it has also given new life to traditional grammar and vocabulary based tasks (such as multiple choice, gap-filling, cloze testing, etc.). This field is still new and not at all researched, but it has been suggested that the debate on the role of classic grammar-based education can be helped by studying the use of technology and its role in FLT methodology Can new technology available to practically all students enable them to improved understanding of the logic behind languages?

This article outlines the iLike-project, in methodology and the applied technology. It focuses on the advantages provided by technology already available, like Smartphones, tablets and computers, and especially on how the teacher should utilize the fact that more and more students are bringing their own devices (BYOD) to class. There are certain advantages provided by usage of mobile technology in class that are difficult to achieve in other ways, like anonymity, engagement by all of the students, peer learning effects and real interaction between teacher and students towards the learning objectives. In order to get the full effect of the methodology, the project will create an innovative online-service named Logical Language Services (LLS).

The article provides background on common methods for teaching grammar in English as a second language to the target group (13-18 year olds) today, and displays how this could be varied through letting students and pupils themselves investigate the logic lying behind the grammatical build-up of sentences and text, hence better preparing them for production, not only reproduction, of their own material and lessening reproduction exercises.

The article concludes with the possible outcomes of the project, both for lecturers, pupils and other stakeholders concerned by the project, and points at areas where the project’s outcomes will impact on the way we teach EFL today.
The development of iLike will be funded by the EU-Commission.

Keywords:

Handheld devices, language learning, grammar.