Technology and Language Learning. What the Learners Say

This paper, based on a plenary talk given at UNAM in Mexico in 2006 gives a brief overview of some recent research reports and surveys on technology and learning, particularly learner attitudes to ICT, including a survey carried out by the author at the University of Padova. It looks at some of the possible implications of research results for the use of technology in language learning, with particular reference to the self access context. Finally, the paper explores some ways in which self access centres can use technology to take into account current social-constructivist approaches to language learning, to foster learner autonomy and meet the needs of students who have to become effective language users in the information and communication society we now live in.