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8 - CALL in Low-Tech Environments

from Part II - Environments

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  15 June 2025

Glenn Stockwell
Affiliation:
Waseda University, Japan
Yijen Wang
Affiliation:
Waseda University, Japan
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Summary

The use of technology in language learning classrooms depends largely on its availability and accessibility. Language practitioners in the twenty-first century continue to face the issue of digital divide, as some developing countries struggle to provide basic hardware such as computers, projectors, and speakers in every language classroom and rely heavily on the technology they and their students bring to class. This is complicated further when language learning must be done online and remotely, as reliable internet connectivity is required but not always available. Numerous language teachers in these low-tech environments have adopted the low-tech approach by maximizing the affordability of “simple” hardware such as feature phones and “common” tools such as email and mobile applications such as chat apps. They engage in technology literacy, which reaches the level of inventive use of “common” technology that has long been used to bring sound pedagogy to various modes of language learning. The chapter attempts to describe how language is taught in low-tech environments and how an inclusive approach must use technology that assures that no one is excluded. It also describes how the incorporation of simple technology into various modes of language teaching and learning has supported sound language pedagogy through creativity and flexibility.

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Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2025

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References

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Further Reading

In this chapter Gonzalez and St. Louis provide an overview of low-tech contexts, exploring the challenges and opportunities that arise when integrating technologies into educational contexts with limited access to advanced technology. The authors discuss various strategies and approaches that can be employed to overcome these limitations and effectively integrate CALL into low-tech settings. The chapter offers insights and practical guidance for educators and practitioners who seek to leverage CALL tools and techniques in low-tech environments.

This guidance published by UNICEF builds upon the valuable insights gained from the COVID-19 response. It provides practical guidance on implementing effective distance learning strategies to ensure inclusive education for children and youths during school closures. The report highlights the importance of ensuring continuity of learning during such periods and places particular emphasis on low-tech and non-tech educational settings.

Gonzalez, D., & St. Louis, R. (2012). CALL in low-tech contexts. In Thomas, M.,Reinders, H., & Warschauer, M. (Eds.), Contemporary computer-assisted language learning (pp. 217241). Bloomsbury.Google Scholar
UNICEF Regional Office for South Asia. (2020, May). Guidance on distance learning modalities to reach all children and youth during school closures: Focusing on low- and no-tech modalities to reach the most marginalized. www.unicef.org/rosa/reports/guidance-distance-learning-modalities-reach-all-children-and-youth-during-school-closuresGoogle Scholar

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