Modern Information Technologies in Teaching Foreign Language

Abstract

Teachers are all the time looking for different ways of increasing the quality of their teaching. At present, the use of computers and new technologies has become an important aspect of foreign language learning. They have enabled the language teaching community to redefine some of the strategies and concepts of teaching and learning. In this climate, computer-based distance learning courses have emerged. One of the supports of distance learning is e-learning, which is widely used at the University of Hradec Králové. Sometimes e-learning is also used in the so-called blended learning. The research concentrates on the perception of the term blended learning, its possible model, reasons for its exploitation, and contribution. This is done by applying comparative and contrastive research methods together with a WebCT environment for creating e-learning courses. Furthermore, one of the representative blended courses is introduced and evaluated. In conclusion, the main results are exemplified, such as improved pedagogy, increased access/ flexibility, or increased cost-effectiveness.