K. Yugandhar’s scientific contributions

Computer Assisted Language Learning is a relatively new and rapidly evolving academic field that exposes the role of information and technology involving in language learning and teaching. Computers provide excellent ambience conducive to second language learning in any aspect of the target language, be it vocabulary, composition, pronunciation or other linguistic and pragmatic skills. But many English teachers believe that the use of computer software and programs cannot become the premier part of their arena. Some suggestions to reconcile these opposing viewpoints are suggested.

The present paper explores technical and pedagogical prospects in linking multimedia and language laboratory to teach communication skills to technical students. A variety of data, audio and visual sources, is used in the study for the analysis. Learners are given the opportunity to get exposure to various real world environments using the target language in the language laboratory. This exposure facilitates the students to observe and imitate model users of English. Through this, the processes that the learners actually engaged in while interpreting and carrying out multimedia tasks and group activities are illustrated. A process and eclectic-driven study is made with the ultimate goal of using the laboratory technology effectively. The study focuses on teaching listening, speaking, reading, writing skills, nonverbal communication and speech receptive behaviour using multimedia and language laboratory. The findings emerged from the teaching learning process in computer- aided language learning laboratory are critically examined. In the end, factors that help the integration of multimedia and language laboratory into the training of communication skills to technical students are inferred from the study.