The Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) Facility
The CALL Facility is part of the University's Public Workstation Facility administered centrally by the Computing Service. NB. We are able to reset your PWF password for you, but if you're not already known to us you will have to bring your University Card with you as proof of identity.
Opening Times and Location
The CALL Facility opens from 9am until 6.00pm Monday-Friday during Full Term. Outside full term, other arrangements apply, as advertised locally. The CALL Facility is located on the first floor of the south wing of the RFB.
The aim of the CALL Facility is to integrate the use of information technology into the Faculty's teaching and learning, primarily for intensive language work, but also for literary and linguistic study, reflecting the Faculty's broad curriculum. The CALL Facility contains over 25 PCs, with space set aside for both classroom teaching and private study.
Available Software
In addition to the standard word processing, Web and email packages on the PWF (listed here) the customised interface in the CALL Facility provides easy access to our suite of specialist language learning packages. The software available comes from many different sources, including tried and tested traditional packages and online multimedia resources. Some of the software has been developed by Faculty staff with particular MML courses in mind. The full language-by-language listing can be viewed here. Online packages can be accessed from any computer with an active Web connection, other applications are, where specified, Windows-based and so only available locally in the CALL Facility or from another PWF PC in the University.
Using the CALL Facility
If you're new to the use of computing in Modern Languages study, try the Internet for Modern Languages tutorial provided by the UK's Intute academic subject gateway.
The CALL Facility is in two linked sections of the south wing of the Raised Faculty Building. The larger room is designed with teaching in mind: it has computer bays spaced round the wall, along with a screen and data projectors. It is also available for private study when not in use for teaching. Next to it is a further room which is primarily for private study and contains a number of PCs in partitioned computer bays. In addition, there are four individual study booths with video and DVD facilities; booth CB4 is larger than the others and can accommodate small groups who wish to watch a video together - please note that it is also bookable for supervisions. All CALL Facility computers are fitted with headphones. A black and white laser printer is available in the outer lobby. Standard MML PWF printing charges apply.
The CALL Facility also incorporates our Media Conversion Facility. More information on the Media Conversion Facilty can be found on our Web and Media Services page.
Booking the CALL Facility
Staff wishing to book the CALL Facility for teaching should approach the Faculty Office. Current CALL Facility bookings are available for viewing online.
Getting Help
Any problems with the CALL Facility should be reported to the Help Desk. Our office is handily located next to the CALL Facility. Our online FAQ covers the most commonly encountered issues our users have when using the PWF.
Contacting CALL Staff
The CALL Facility is maintained by IT Support Services and is continually developed on a collaborative basis by technical and language teaching specialist staff. Constructive feedback is always welcome. For all CALL related enquiries, or to suggest new packages or links, please contact call@mml.cam.ac.uk.
