An Investigative Study On ESL Learning Websites

Nowadays, computer-assisted language learning (CALL) has been widely used in ESL learning and teaching. And many researches have been done on the incorporation of technology into ESL education. With the development of the World Wide Web, there are thousands of ESL learning websites existing in the cyberspace, and the web-based CALL has come of its age. Besides the incorporation of the Internet into the ESL class, a large number of learners are learning ESL before computer at home. Computer technology is no longer just a possible tool but an essential new medium of language learning. ESL learning websites can provide authentic language materials in order to make the learners learn English language as well as English culture.But, not all ESL learning websites are necessarily effective in helping ESL learners. The bloom of the Internet makes it possible that every one virtually can become an information provider or a website author. And the authors of the websites vary from English fans, teachers, commercial units, institutions, even to computer personnel. Many websites are lack of solid theoretical support, intended audience, high level interactivity and authentic contents, which are of poor quality. It is difficult for ESL learners to find online ESL materials, exercises, activities and lessons that are appropriate to their language levels. Therefore, research on how to design and develop a good ESL website as an effective learning tool becomes necessary.At present, few works on ESL learning websites are published, especially the evaluation and development of ESL learning websites. So, there are few criteria for ESL website developers to refer to. In this study, the author does an investigative study on ESL learning websites by examining 65 most frequently visited ESL websites listed by Google.com (both at home and abroad), categorizing them by different features such as literary websites, online magazines, and ESL learning/instruction websites. And the ESL learning and instruction websites are classified further in details by the four skills of language. A survey on the experience, attitudes and perceptions of college students and teachers including CALL developers towards the ESL learning and teaching through the Internet shows that both learners and teachers react positively about the application of web-based CALL.At last, issues of ESL website evaluation and construction will be proposed and a proposal of an ESL learning website will also be elaborated. For evaluating an ESL...