A research on a student-centred teaching model in an ICT-based English audio-video speaking class

TLDR: This article examined the feasibility of the student-centred teaching model utilised in an English audio-video speaking class (EAVSC) in computer-assisted language learning (CALL) environments at the authors' university by carrying out two quantitative longitudinal case studies.

Abstract: The development and application of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in the field of Foreign Language Teaching (FLT) have had a considerable impact on the teaching methodologies in China. With an increasing emphasis on strengthening students’ learning initiative and adopting a “student-centred” teaching concept in FLT, language teachers and researchers in China have resolved to explore effective and appropriate teaching models both in theory and practice. A range of reforms of college English teaching in China has demonstrated the shift of the teaching focus from enhancing students’ reading ability to their listening and speaking abilities. More focus has been put on improving students’ communicative language ability (CLA). This paper aims to examine the feasibility of the student-centred teaching model utilised in an English audio-video speaking class (EAVSC) in computer-assisted language learning (CALL) environments at the authors’ university by carrying out two quantitative longitudinal case studies. Analysis of correlated data shows that this specific teaching model in general is both plausible and effective in improving students’ communicative language abilities, especially in their speaking abilities.