LANGUAGE IN INDIA

Enhancing Language Skills Using Learn to Speak English Software
in Engineering Students of Andhra Pradesh

E. Suresh Kumar M.A., M.Phil., Ph.D.
K. V. Madhavi M.A., Ph.D. Candidate

Abstract

The methods of teaching and learning English have changed significantly. A new way of learning technique has emerged with the facility of computers and internet. The present paper highlights the use of LEARN TO SPEAK ENGLISH software in enhancing language skills among the Engineering students of Andhra Pradesh.

Introduction

English Language Teaching has influenced the experience of learning and teaching of English as a non-native language in India. The development of English language teaching in India has been encouraging before the independence onwards in spite of differences in the levels of initiation of instruction, differences in the socio-economic status, scarcity of teachers, over-crowded classrooms, indifferent students, parents and educators etc.

At present, English has become the language of India's arts, business, government, commerce, justice, science, and technology. Its importance and impact on Indians cannot be ignored. Presently, educational system in India especially Andhra Pradesh has been undergoing diverse changes. This change has been clearly noticed in engineering education also.

The methods of teaching and learning English have changed significantly. Much importance is laid on linguistic competence, communicative proficiency, grammatical precision and vocabulary building. A student must have effective communication skills if he or she wants to cope with the present competitive world. There is a lot of demand for personality development, LSRW skills, soft skills, spoken English etc., which can be acquired using modern methods of learning. At this juncture, language learning is no more considered as a matter of acquiring final degree.

A New Way of Learning

A new way of learning technique has emerged with the facility of computers and internet. This technology has helped the students study well and enhance knowledge. Top universities in Andhra Pradesh like JNTU, Osmania and GITAM have introduced multimedia English language lab in the curriculum.

The English language lab is well sophisticated with computers, headphones, speakers, LCD and different English language software etc. JNTU is one of the prestigious universities that has been divided into 4 different Universities, 12 constituent units and 284 affiliated colleges in AP. On roll there would be around 1.5 lakh engineering graduates coming out with their degree every year. Osmania University is one of the top ten universities in India. GITAM is the top fourth private deemed university in India and the top private university in Andhra Pradesh according to MHRD survey. Such universities introduced LEARN TO SPEAK ENGLISH software for the benefit of the students. This paper presents in detail the above said software that focuses on improving various language skills among learners.

Learn to Speak

Learn to Speak - Personalized Learning Technology (PLT) is a language learning programme that focuses on building skills by practising various lessons, exercises and drills. This programme is a combination of video, audio, text and online instruction. The learner can involve him/herself through visual, auditory and interactive methods. The software runs on 166 MHz Pentium® processor or equivalent Windows® 95, 98, Me, 2000, XP along with 32 MB RAM, 125 MB free hard disk space, 256 color SVGA, 4x CD-ROM drive, Windows-compatible sound card, Mouse, Microphone and speakers. The software is published by the learning company and can be bought through online at the rate of $80.

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