Abstract
In the age of
technology, the development of language learning software and web-applications
significantly improves and even changes traditional language learning modes.
Yet good design of any language learning software or web-application is by no
means easy. This paper reviews a Chinese learning web-application Basic
Chinese, a free off-line web-application developed by the University of
Cambridge Language Centre for basic level students of Chinese,
to reveal the potential advantages and problems imbedded in computer assisted
language learning. Based on an objective description of the product and feedbacks
from two product users who know little Chinese, three aspects (webpage design, presented
learning materials, and exercises and corresponding teacher assessments) of
this language learning web-application are examined. Suggestions for
improvements and hints for design of web pages, learning materials and exercises
in the future are also pointed out.