CALL

1. Issues When Implementing
ICT / CALL
Thom Thibeault, Ph.D.
Samford University
English Language Learners Institute
Birmingham, Alabama
USA

2. Infrastructure
• Is there Internet access?
• Is the connection reliable?
• Is the connection fast enough for video, audio, games?
• Are the computers maintained on a regular basis?
• If the infrastructure is lacking, how can you compensate?
• Is there funding to maintain the infrastructure?
• Is there funding to update the infrastructure?

3. Access
• What is the classroom setting regarding technology?
• Is there a lab large enough for the class?
• Is accessibility to the hardware or software limited?

4. Time
• Does the teacher have time to prepare materials?
• Does the curriculum allow time for ICT activities?
• Does the teacher have time to update skills?
• Do ICT activities add to the teacher’s time load?

5. Content
• Are CALL materials age appropriate for the target
group?
• Are the materials designed for the appropriate level?
• Is the content in synch with the rest of the curriculum?
• Is the content in synch with the learning objectives?

6. Commercial Software
• Is commercial software available?
• Is the software effective?
• Is the software motivating?
• Is there a site license or multi-pack?
• Is it bought outright or is a license renewed every year?

7. Administrative Support
• Are administrators supportive of innovative ideas?
• Will they support professional development?
• Will they invest money in ICT?
• Will they reward initiative?
• Will they allow ICT in the curriculum?
• Do they use technology themselves?

8. Licensing & Copyright
• What is allowed or restricted in licensing agreements?
• Can materials be duplicated legally?
• Can materials be distributed on a network?
• Is the license good for one year or for unlimited time?
• Have you created ICT units with copyrighted material?
• Will you use those materials in class or on the Web?
• If you create ICT materials, who owns the copyright?

9. Security
• Do students use Web sites that ask for personal info?
• Is the material age appropriate?
• Is there a risk of inappropriate material being accessed?
• Are ICT communications monitored for safety?

10. The End