On the use of ICT and CALL in intermediate level EFL classes in Norway

Abstract

This thesis investigates the advantages and challenges facing teachers in the process of applying ICT (Information and Computer Technologies) and especially CALL (Computer- Assisted Language Learning) in EFL (English as a foreign language) teaching in Norwegian primary schools at the intermediate level (grades 5 to 7). The aim of the study was to explore the extent and the manner ICT and CALL were promoted on the basis of the guidelines in the national curriculum L97 for English. The research was primarily quantitative, based on data gathered from an electronic questionnaire survey among teachers throughout Norway. In addition, two interviews with teachers using ICT frequently in their lessons supplied the study with a qualitative dimension. The study describes the situation of CALL in Norwegian primary schools and additionally discusses the possibilities of improving the state of CALL and ICT in general in the process of EFL education in relation to the L97 curriculum. The study analyses the results of the survey and interviews in the context of theoretical background about the nature and history of CALL. It includes a review of some research studies relevant to the topic of the thesis. The original assumption in the study was that ICT was an excellent learning tool that could be used to assist teachers and pupils to acquire new knowledge and skills in EFL. The background was the emphasis on computer literacy in EFL in the L97 national curriculum. It was considered important to find out about teachers' proficiency in using ICT and CALL, what ICT technology was used, and what the benefits of it were for the pupils. However, the results of the study suggest that the ICT situation in EFL does not reflect the intentions of the curriculum. The findings induce great concern, especially regarding primary teachers' formal training, both in English and ICT. A discrepancy was found between theory and practice in the implementation of CALL in EFL at the intermediate level. On the one hand, the curriculum explicitly suggested a transformation in the EFL learning environment by introducing computer-mediated language learning as part of the national curriculum in English. On the other hand, neither schools nor teachers appeared to be fully prepared for the transition to a digitalised EFL learning environment. At the same time, some positive effects of the application of ICT technologies in English lessons were registered, especially pupils' motivation and interest.