Schedule: 2009-09-10 (12:45 - 13:30)
Parallel Session 1 (Room A-30)

Title: Integrating computer assisted task-based learning into the language curriculum
Authors: Caoimhín Ó Dónaill
Abstract: This paper will report on an initiative by the Centre for Excellence in Multimedia Language Learning at the University of Ulster to embed a programme of computer assisted task-based learning activities into undergraduate language programmes in Irish and French. The eventual aim is to design a generic package that can be adopted by other languages. Central to the project is the development of a peer-evaluation and eportfolio framework that maximises and rewards student input while they are engaged in the completion of a series of stimulating task-based learning activities that have primarily been designed for use in a multimedia or digital lab. The construction and evaluation of these tasks has been informed by the well established Task-Based Language Learning (TBLL) approach (cf. Edwards, C and Willis, J. 2005 Teachers exploring tasks in English language teaching. Palgrave; Ellis, R 2003 Task-based language learning and teaching. Oxford : Oxford University Press; Willis, J. 1996 A framework for task-based learning. Harlow : Longman Addison-Wesley), but they represent a significant extension of existing practice in this area in that they specifically seek to harness the potential of readily available internet and desktop applications and VLE functionality, as well as specialized multimedia lab hardware and software. Our use of these techniques to date has not only delivered on specific language related learning outcomes but has given our undergraduate students the opportunity to collaborate with each other in order to solve problems and achieve common goals. They have also offered the students significant value-added benefits in relation to the acquisition of transferable ICT skills e.g. video editing & voice dubbing, the design, collection and presentation of market research using electronic survey tools, and the design and build of reusable learning objects such as electronic crosswords. Students are also regularly asked to comment on any use made of technology. The peer-evaluation and eportfolio elements are designed to ensure maximum student engagement with the tasks and to integrate this programme of student-centred activities fully into the reward and evaluation framework of our undergraduate language curricula.
Keywords: Task-based Irish Multimedia lab French

Main topic: Curriculum development for CALL.

Biodata: a native of Belfast, is currently a Lecturer in Irish in the Research Institute for Irish and Celtic Studies at the University of Ulster, and is Assistant Director of the Centre for Excellence in Multimedia Language Learning based within the University’s School of Languages and Literature.
Type of presentation Paper presentation

Paper category Research & Development

Target educational sector Higher education

Language of delivery English

EU-funded project No

Schedule:	2009-09-10 (12:45 - 13:30) Parallel Session 1 (Room A-30)
Title:	Integrating computer assisted task-based learning into the language curriculum
Authors:	Caoimhín Ó Dónaill
Abstract:	This paper will report on an initiative by the Centre for Excellence in Multimedia Language Learning at the University of Ulster to embed a programme of computer assisted task-based learning activities into undergraduate language programmes in Irish and French. The eventual aim is to design a generic package that can be adopted by other languages. Central to the project is the development of a peer-evaluation and eportfolio framework that maximises and rewards student input while they are engaged in the completion of a series of stimulating task-based learning activities that have primarily been designed for use in a multimedia or digital lab. The construction and evaluation of these tasks has been informed by the well established Task-Based Language Learning (TBLL) approach (cf. Edwards, C and Willis, J. 2005 Teachers exploring tasks in English language teaching. Palgrave; Ellis, R 2003 Task-based language learning and teaching. Oxford : Oxford University Press; Willis, J. 1996 A framework for task-based learning. Harlow : Longman Addison-Wesley), but they represent a significant extension of existing practice in this area in that they specifically seek to harness the potential of readily available internet and desktop applications and VLE functionality, as well as specialized multimedia lab hardware and software. Our use of these techniques to date has not only delivered on specific language related learning outcomes but has given our undergraduate students the opportunity to collaborate with each other in order to solve problems and achieve common goals. They have also offered the students significant value-added benefits in relation to the acquisition of transferable ICT skills e.g. video editing & voice dubbing, the design, collection and presentation of market research using electronic survey tools, and the design and build of reusable learning objects such as electronic crosswords. Students are also regularly asked to comment on any use made of technology. The peer-evaluation and eportfolio elements are designed to ensure maximum student engagement with the tasks and to integrate this programme of student-centred activities fully into the reward and evaluation framework of our undergraduate language curricula.
Keywords:	Task-based Irish Multimedia lab French
Main topic:	Curriculum development for CALL.
Biodata:	a native of Belfast, is currently a Lecturer in Irish in the Research Institute for Irish and Celtic Studies at the University of Ulster, and is Assistant Director of the Centre for Excellence in Multimedia Language Learning based within the University’s School of Languages and Literature.
Type of presentation	Paper presentation
Paper category	Research & Development
Target educational sector	Higher education
Language of delivery	English
EU-funded project	No