Reflection on Week 6 “Theory-Driven CALL and The Development Process”

In this Article, some traditional approaches in developing CALL are introduced and described. Based on a survey and comments of various practitioners, it is noted that different approaches have been adopted during the development process, even though initially the development approach was “theory-driven”. I think such finding is quite reasonable, as a source-ware develops, it cannot be a purely theory-driven or alternative solely technology based but must be a mixed or balanced one.

In practice, the development process has to take into account and affected by many factors such as needs analysis, technology, feedback of learners, mode of study etc. and all these factors will have certain impact on the development process. Sometimes, the learning ability or cultural difference of learners may affect the development process as well. Apart from the syllabus, the learners being the “end users” should have a say in the development process, to ensure it is going in the right direction that is beneficial to all stake holders.