The Implementation Of Task-based English Teaching With The Aid Of Computers

The recent history of second language (L2) teaching methodology has witnessed a shift away from the consideration of teaching methods in isolation towards a focus on classroom interaction as the most vital and initiating element in the L2 teaching process. In terms with the shift, we have seen the rise of the "task" as a fundamental concept in L2 teaching methodology, materials and syllabus design. Task-based approach (TBA) has become a heated topic in L2 teaching discussions in the past 20 years. In China, task-based language teaching (TBLT) has aroused more and more attention, and the New National Standard for English Curriculum (experimental draft) officially urge language teachers to take task-based approach in teaching practice.On the other hand, many studies have shown that a great number of students are interested in a new style of learning and that they have a positive attitude towards the use of computer technology in language teaching classrooms. Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL), a cross-disciplinary science which has developed in steps with the progress of computer technology and of applied linguistics, has shown itself as advantageous over traditional or conventional language teaching approaches, and its growing popularity with teachers and students makes the computer a powerful teaching tool.Though a great amount of study has been conducted about TBLT and CALL separately, quite few have considered the possibilities and advantages of implementing TBLT with the aid of computers. The author attempts to facilitate the implementation of TBLT by using the computer in her language teaching classroom, thus effecting the integration of the two. With this in mind, the author reviews relevant literature about TBLT before looking into the necessity and feasibility of the computer as a TBLT aid. The focus of the thesis lies in a case study, which attempts to show how the advantages of computer technology could be explored so as to aid the implementation of TBLT. An experiment is accordingly carried out in an attempt to verify the benefits of such a teaching method. By the end, the author gives her suggestions concerning the right attitude towards the implementation of the TBLT with the aid of the computer.