Learning a second language can be pretty tough. I started learning Spanish when I was in 7th grade. I had a break and then took a year or so in high school and at least two semesters in college. I can hardly speak a lick. I still remember some vocabulary and can put together some basic subject-verb-object sentences, but that’s about it. I don’t understand most of what is spoken by native spanish speakers. It’s frustrating.
I’m having a hard time seeing how a computer program can get beyond behaviorist ways of teaching and learning. In class someone suggested having native speakers involved or provide voice recognition. Both of those options, while ideal, do not appear to be in the realm of possibility at this time. The former because of cost, the second because of technology. I don’t know that voice recognition has advanced far enough to really be a viable option to gauge how a learner is progressing.
CALL is still a positive step in language learning and has a lot of potential. I see that some programs provide options for how information is presented so it can be tailored to a learner’s preferences. I’m assuming it can be programmed like some national tests like the GRE where as I get better the information gets harder (should I so choose to go this direction). I think a behaviorist approach to language learning coupled with situational learning is a good mix. Drill-and-practice some of the vocabulary but as soon as possible start using it in realistic setting.
My son is currently involved in a first-grade Spanish two-way immersion program. I actually sought advice to Dr. Graham’s father, Dr. Ray Graham, before placing him in the program. He was so helpful in deciphering research on immersion and encouraging us to have our son give it a try. It’s too soon to tell what the outcome will be, but my son is enjoying himself so right now that’s half the battle. His Spanish teacher has told us that he is a smart boy but needs to work on his vocabulary. Some of the students started this program in kindergarten so I think he’s behind in comparison. This tells me that a little drill-and-practice may be in order for the foundational words (things like colors, big/small, tree, house, school-words, etc). If he can get those then conversations he hears while immersed in Spanish may make a little more sense. I think he will be able to figure out words he doesn’t know hearing them in context with words he does know–that’s where the behaviorism coupled with constructivist (situational) theory may be a good thing.
