What is Language Lab?
According to google dictionary language lab is, “a room equipped with audio and visual equipment to aid people learning a foreign language.” Basically it includes computers with this software, which helps learners to enhance their four basic language skills using this software. It includes various exercise for learners to enhance the skill on their own.
Development of Language Lab
The early period of language lab was using recorded taps. It makes use of a recorder and cassette tapes to help language learners. The tape usually contains texts or stories read aloud by a native language speaker. There are also listening and speaking exercises that follow in each chapter. . The teacher plays back the tape and the learners listen to it and learn the material. Then there is some development in labs. Now The students are given a headphones to listen to the audiocassettes that are played back. As regards to the conventional laboratory, the distractions in this laboratory are less so there is certain amount of clarity in listening. Then comes the CALL (Computer Assisted Language Learning). This is one of the most modern speech laboratories available today. The entire course module is already stored in the computer. The language course resources are already downloaded on the computer and are presented to students according to the features available in the system. Then comes the Mobile Lab. This can be transfer at anywhere. So basically any room can become language lab. Language lab has developed from recorded taps to wireless, and the new process of making it more easily available is constantly going on.
Advantages of Language Lab
• It is practical mode of learning.
• It allows diversity in classroom.
• One can learn at their own speed.
• One can learn anytime they want.
• It helps in self evaluation.
• It provides individual learning.
Disadvantage of Language Lab
• It is costly.
• Without some equipment and electricity it will not work.
• Needs qualify teacher, who can use this effectively.
• The institute needs to keep upgrading as technology changes very fast.
