Research Problems Research Objectives

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CHAPTER II LITERATURE REVIEW

A. Theoretical Review

Theoretical review is going to discuss four fundamental sections. The first involves the concept of CALL. The second is reading competence, the third is English for mechanical engineering, and the fourth is action research.

1. CALL

The use of technology related to computers has been expansively increased and become a common feature of the classroom. There is no doubt that the use of computers in language learning brings some chances and advantages for developing second language acquisition. Its use will later occupy more roles in the second language classroom in the future Richard and Renandya, 2002. However, utilizing the computer in language learning does not portray the teacher’s absence in the class that all aspects of learning are restrained by the computer. In fact, the teachers are the ones who possess the control over the quality of learning occurred in the classroom. Using computers in the classroom is important for both teachers and learners. Computers can handle a range of activities and carry out programmed functions at amazing speed. They can check exercises after they are done, move students gradually from easier to more difficult exercises according to their levels and abilities. When students fail to answer questions correctly or perform activities, the computer can simulate, drill, or explain the phenomenon in a way that makes it easier for the learner to understand Hoffman, 1996. Some language practitioners and teachers believe that utilizing computer in second language learning brings a good influence for the learners to improve language skills. Providing the learners with CALL is not solely about providing an innovative learning and considering conventional class as no longer good. It provides students different learning atmosphere as they experience more interaction outside the class.

a. The Concept of CALL

The use of computer has been increased in word wide. The search for and study of applications of computer in language teaching and learning can be regarded as the definition of what is called the Computer – Assisted Language Learning CALL Levy, 1997:1 Levy stated CALL is interdisciplinary in nature, and it has developed the effort to find ways of using the computer for teaching. Levy 1997:76 stated that a conceptualization of a CALL is an abstract notion that may go beyond a description of any particular set of CALL materials will shed light on the author’s conceptualization. It can be said that the concept of CALL is actually a reflection on how CALL develops materials. Levy 1997:77 stated that conceptualization of CALL depends on the material as well as how the materials are used in the learning process. The use of Computer Assisted Language Learning CALL can offer viable opportunities for the promotion of the concept of responsibility for one’s learning, by putting control of the learning in the hands of the students Benson, 2006. CALL is also going to be applied in teaching reading to develop reading skills in Mechanical Engineering College. It will promote new teaching and learning atmosphere in class. The control of learning is not only from teacher, but also students themselves in understanding the material.

b. The Benefits of CALL

According to Donalson 2006, some of the benefits of CALL in teaching learning process that help students to develop their language competence. The first is learner autonomy. The learner can spend more time on those topics that are causing difficulty. Information can be reviewed and tasks can be repeated until the learner understand and move on to a new topic. The learner feels in control, which usually enhances satisfaction levels with the learning process. Successful language learners assume responsibility for their own learning. The second is privacy. Many learners are shy in a traditional classroom setting, not participating as much as they would like, for fear of making mistakes and being the object of ridicule. The computer offers a forum where learners can lose their self-consciousness. The computer will not expose them when they make any mistakes although the errors may be stored for review. The learners can learn within the sheltered, protected confines of the CALL program. The third is a ccess to Information. Another benefit of CALL is the control over access to information. A CALL program has the potential to provide more information to the learner via links to electronic dictionaries, more detailed screens and links to other sites With a CALL program, the user can leave when she wishes and come back to where she left off and start again. Thus, users have more control over the cognitive load they bear during a lesson. The fourth is i nteractivity.