Integrating Computer Technology Into EFL Writing Classroom: A Case Study

Computer-assisted language learning (CALL) is becoming the trend in foreign language teaching all over the world due to the impact of information technology on today's society. Much attention is focused on the understanding of the role of computer technology in pedagogical practice.Against that background, this paper attempts to give an overall review of the historical development of CALL as well as the research and studies related to the use of computers in EFL (English as a foreign language) writing classroom. Like any other empirical conducts, designs and practice in the field of CALL need to have a sound basis on related second language acquisition (SLA) theories. Serving as a starting part, seven hypotheses that are relevant to developing CALL are discussed on ideal conditions for SLAAs one important component of the thesis, a case study is included. Focused on an EFL writing class via computer-mediated communication in a network-based environment, the study was aimed to investigate how the SLA theories are perfectly reflected in the online learning environment. Using questionnaires, interviews as the research methodologies, the researcher investigated students' attitude towards and perceptions of the effectiveness of this online writing course and the change of teacher's role in writing instructing in the network-based environment. The findings indicated that learning EFL writing in a computer-mediated-communication environment fits in with the SLA theories and the communicative teaching approach.Then this thesis illustrates the impacts and implications that computer technology has brought to EFL writing and teachers in the philosophy of teaching, the pedagogical challenge and their rapport with students. Computer-assisted EFL writing instruction has both advantages and disadvantages. On the one hand, with the help of technology, more opportunities are provided for students to have authentic interactionwith a variety of audiences for their social, cultural and linguistic exploration. On the other hand, some potential disadvantages do exist: technical problems, exposure to plagiarism, high cost and uncertainty of the results.In general, computer technology is not panacea for language teaching. However, when appropriately implemented, new technology can help reshape the content and process of the language teaching and learning. The key to successful application of technology in language teaching lies in our human capacity as teachers to implement it effectively into educational activity.