Video as Basic Media For Call Material

Enhancing Vocabulary Mastery Through Video-Based CALL Media: How Visual Input Strengthens Language Learning

1. Introduction

    Digital technology has reshaped the landscape of language education, especially through the development of CALL (Computer-Assisted Language Learning). Among the many tools available, video stands out as one of the most powerful and versatile media for supporting language learning. Unlike traditional print materials, video provides multimodal input—combining sound, images, movement, expressions, and authentic language use.

In vocabulary learning, particularly for beginner and intermediate learners, video offers rich contextual support. Students are not only exposed to new words but can also see, hear, and feel the meaning through real-life situations. This makes vocabulary acquisition more natural, intuitive, and memorable
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Before going into the explanation, you can watch this video example.

Exampe : Viseo as Basic Media For Call Material

 

2. Why Video is Effective as Basic Media for CALL

2.1 Visual Contextualization

One of the strongest advantages of video is its ability to provide immediate context. When learners see an action—such as someone brushing their teeth—while hearing the phrase “brush my teeth”, the brain forms a direct association. This eliminates the need for lengthy definitions and strengthens retention.

2.2 Authentic Language Input

Videos often feature native speakers using language naturally. Learners hear real pronunciation, stress, rhythm, gestures, and intonation—elements impossible to convey fully in textbooks. This authenticity prepares learners for real-life communication.

2.3 Multimodal Learning

CALL emphasizes multimodal input, and video excels at it. Learners receive information through:

• Visual cues: objects, actions, environments

• Audio cues: speech, sound effects

• Written cues: subtitles or captions

This combination supports different learning styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic).

2.4 Learner Motivation and Engagement

Videos are inherently engaging. They capture attention, reduce boredom, and increase learning motivation. When students enjoy the process, they naturally learn more.

2.5 Flexibility and Replay Ability

Students can pause, rewind, slow down, or re-watch the material. This makes video perfect for autonomous learning, one of the key principles of CALL.

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3. Example of Using Video for Vocabulary Learning

To illustrate how video can be used as CALL material, here is a detailed example focusing on Daily Activities Vocabulary.

Step 1: Choosing the Video

Select a short, clear video—1 to 3 minutes—that shows daily routine activities. The video should include simple actions such as:

• waking up

• stretching

• brushing teeth

• making breakfast

• preparing school items

• leaving home

These concrete actions provide ideal visual support.

Step 2: Extracting Vocabulary from the Video

After watching, compile a vocabulary list:

• Wake up

• Stretch

• Brush teeth

• Wash face

• Eat breakfast

• Read a book

• Ride a bicycle

• Do homework

• Prepare a bag

• Feed a pet

Students can automatically match the words with the visuals they observed.

Step 3: CALL-Based Learning Activities

Here are CALL-supported activities teachers can use:

a. Vocabulary Matching

Students drag and drop words to match scenes captured from the video.

b. Gap-Fill with Video Playback

The system pauses the video and learners fill missing words like:

“Every morning, I ______ my teeth.”

c. Pronunciation Practice

Learners repeat after the speaker. CALL tools can record and compare pronunciation accuracy.

d. Comprehension Mini-Quiz

Multiple-choice questions testing understanding of scenes and vocabulary.

e. Subtitled vs. Non-Subtitled Mode

Learning can start with subtitles on, then progress to no subtitles to encourage listening comprehension.

Step 4: Production Stage (Output)

Students create short sentences or produce a mini-video describing their routines:

• “I wake up at seven.”

• “I read a book after dinner.”

• “I ride my bicycle in the afternoon.”

This stage promotes active vocabulary use and communication skills.

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4. Benefits of Learning Vocabulary Through Video in CALL Context

4.1 Improved Vocabulary Retention

Research shows that visuals strengthen memory. Students exposed to both auditory and visual cues retain vocabulary longer.

4.2 Immediate Understanding Without Translation

Because learners see actions directly, they can infer meaning without relying on translations.

4.3 Better Listening and Pronunciation Skills

Video exposes learners to real speech in engaging contexts.

4.4 Personalization and Self-Paced Learning

Learners control their own learning pace—pause, replay, slow-motion—making video a perfect CALL medium.

4.5 Cultural Exposure

Videos also introduce cultural elements such as habits, greetings, gestures, and settings, enriching learners’ cultural competence.

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5. Conclusion

Using video as basic media in CALL materials significantly enhances vocabulary learning. Videos provide authentic input, contextual support, and engaging experiences that help learners understand and remember new words naturally. Through visual cues, multimodal learning, and interactive CALL activities, students can acquire vocabulary more effectively and enjoyably.

As technology continues to grow, videos will remain one of the most powerful tools in language education—bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-life communication.