Homework from 1-23

Evaluating a CALL resource for a listening class (just like everyone else, apparently!)

YouTube.com 

Business Ethics Video (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vmVu66Fpd9U)

This is an actual non-LL video I chose to use for an achievement test (PIE level 5 L/S) in the unit on business ethics. 

• vocabulary
• Mostly appropriate for level 5. Some challenging words, but also many of our vocabulary words
• pace
• Natural pace for native speakers. I think my level 5s might have trouble to keep up in some sentences
• voice clarity
• Clear English. 
• background noise
• None. Listeners can focus on the voice
• interest level
• This is an appropriate video for the assessment, though I don't think it's particularly interesting.
• authenticity
• While this was a staged lecture-conversation, I think the content, pace, and credibility of the speaker contribute to a sense of authenticity.
• register choice
• The register is suitable for academic contexts or more casual conversations that students may have at the university.
• length
• About 5 minutes--excellent for level 5.
• content
• This lecture is well-oriented to our unit on business ethics, so I think the content is a real strength of this site.
• cultural awareness
• I think this story is suitable for Saudi and Chinese students, like those I have at PIE. I think most groups of students would have something to say about it, but I don't think it's offensive.
• visuals
• Some ppt support helps students pick up main points as the speaker talks. Speaker is visible the entire time.
• copyrights
• No apparent need to ask copyright permission.

Listenings on YouTube are something that I often turn to when I'm looking for listening files; yet, I'm always looking for ways to avoid spending entire afternoons sorting through a bunch of bad YouTube videos (there are a lot out there). Luckily for me, my efforts this time paid off as the excellent sound quality, content, and extras (e.g., video and ppt support) of this video make it a useful resource for the assessment.