The Eclectic Approach in English Language Teaching Applications: A Qualitative Synthesis of the Literature

Abstract

This paper proposes a study of the methodologies used to teach English as a second language through computer applications. It reviews the different methodologies used in language teaching in order to contrast them with different fundamental approaches. It examines the applications used for teaching English online, especially those in line with personalised learning environments and learner-centred autonomy. The use of a mixed methodology is reported, allowing the selection of papers from both a traditional systematic review and the search engine elicit.org. Finally, it is concluded that Blended Learning is the most appropriate method, highlighting that current applications are mainly based on the Audio-Lingual method, which limits their practical use in wider contexts. Further research is needed on software applications that prioritise personalised learning environments with learner-centred autonomy, incorporating technologies based on Blended Learning and artificial intelligence (AI). To this end, it is proposed in the future to develop an application using Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR), Text To Speech (TTS), Natural Language Understanding (NLU) and Dialog Management (DM) algorithms, focusing on the above and simulating the capabilities of a teacher. This may lead to innovations in the development of software applications capable of integrating different methods, teaching modalities and learning methods.