How computers facilitate English foreign language learners acquire English abstract words

Abstract This study investigated computer assisted (CAL) foreign language abstract word learning. A total of 13 commonly encountered abstract words at the elementary school level were chosen to be studied in the abstract word learning system. According to the theories in CAL, the abstract word learning system was designed to provide context for language learning as well as flexibility in learning time, paths, and modes. A total of 38 sixth graders engaged in learning with the system. It was found that students learning with the system learned significantly more abstract words than students in regular language learning class. This paper also provides suggestions for further improvements in the CAL system used in this study.

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