The Internet a "natural" channel for language learning

As language learning theories shifted fi'om belief in rote practice to communicative approaches, CALL--initially in consonance with the on-going practice--found itself increasingly at odds with teaching goals, and, consequently, was placed outside of the classroom. In order to increase the quality of human-computer interaction, CALL specialists turned to CL and AI. This resulted in the creation of simulations and text manipulation programs designed to expand students' exposure to a foreign language outside of the classroom, or to take over the teaching of chosen language skills lending themselves to computerization. Emphasis on cognitive processes in language learning inspired the building of small environments in which students could learn through exploration in ways similar to those proposed for mathematics by Logo advocates. Computer technology, however, did not fulfill the expectations of language teachers.