Discussion

Technology and Chinese Language Learning

Chinese is a very complicated language to learn. Because similar or even identical characters have different pronunciations and meanings and the language itself has tones which, when mispronounced, can completely change the meaning of the spoken words, it is very hard for a Westerner, especially an older adult, to undertake the learning of this language. While technology can be helpful in learning this language, in my opinion, it is not the optimal or only useful way to increase fluency in Chinese. Pinyin input tools and the typing of Chinese characters by entering English language spellings, can help the user remember the pronunciation and usage of Chinese words as well as assist in character recognition, however, the reliance on such tools, I believe, leads users to become more lazy and unable to produce the desired characters when they must write them in the absence of the technolgy. It is similar to cellphone users entering their friends' names and then having no idea how to call friends and family without the use of that cell phone, or people's loss of simple math abilities once calculators became widely available.

It is also difficult for any online, web-based, or other computer application to gauge a Chinese language learner's proficiency, pronunciation, or comprehension of a language. A good instructor can hear incorrect tones, assist students with pronunciation, provide supervised activities for learning, and provide immediate and accurate feedback of success as well as suggesting techniques for improvement. The writing of characters and remembering of them is generally facilitated by "old-fashioned" writing and the repetition of practicing stroke order. For me, I cannot remember how to write a character by simply seeing in on a computer screen or by typing in the pinyin and selecting the correct character, I need to write it over and over until it becomes natural and easy to remember.

Having the opportunity to use technology as an extra tool for learning Chinese is great and provides the opportunity to practice some aspects of language learning at times convenient for the student such as late nights, early mornings, etc. when the instructor and other native speakers are unavailable. However, at times when no computer is available such as in line at the post office or store, in the car driving, or other locations, the ability to use flashcards, or character practice worksheets, or other means of leaning, is a helpful tool.

In summary, technology is a useful supplement for learning Chinese and provides many benefits and options for self-paced learning and variety but, in my opinion, nothing takes the place of a good teacher who cares about her students' progress, the hard work and dedication of those students, and lots of speaking, writing, and listening practice.