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.