CALL TECHNOLOGY AND ITS IMPACT ON TEACHING AND LEARNING AMONG STUDENTS

Abstract

The usefulness of providing students with information via electronic notes, a website and a self-assessment quiz was assessed in three ways. Students perceptions of each package were gauged through questionnaires; their patterns of use of the electronic support was monitored via the computer system and the effect of provision of these materials on performance was measured by marks in the end of module examination. The results clearly showed that computer-assisted learning packages are at least as effective in imparting information as traditional lectures and that students value the opportunity to reinforce their learning through interactive lecture notes and self-assessment quizzes. However, students definitely expressed the opinion that they would not like to have too much of their lecture time replaced by computer packages and they seemed to require the option of downloading the information onto a piece of paper for individual use. Therefore, it seems that the teachers who are seeking new ways to teach students must avoid overuse of computer-based packages and use other forms of studentdirected learning, such as problem-based tutorials, as well. Also, they should include at least as much contact time with students as in a formal lecture programme if they are to support learning effectively.