Innovation in Language Learning

The use of computers in language education has been a fast-growing topic of discussion and an area of research in the academic field today. Several MA programs are dedicated to this issue and universities are making use of their personnel to cover the many particular topics related to the main theme, although this proves to be practically impossible, as institutions do not have the commodity of holding many scholars working in the same area within the same department or school or even institution. The MA program on Language Education and Technology attempted a few novelties in the personnel involved (from 6 different countries), methods of teaching (f2f and synchronous by distance), modules and seminars offered, transparency (as to the use and allocation of the fees and student selection), systems of examination, and modes of collaboration. Data collected did not only involve opinions of those that have attended the course but also results as to how the gained knowledge affected the professional and academic life of the individuals involved. It was found that students appreciated the mode of module development, attended the seminars offered on top of the scheduled program, and made use of the knowledge gained. A number of those were further selected to pursue an academic career either involved in a Ph.D. out of Greece (with scholarship from the host institution), or as staff in universities as far as China. Many presented papers in international conferences out of the country with a scholarship from the program. Student evaluation of the course and problems during its development are also discussed.

Keywords: CALL training, Master programs, Teaching Methods;