Abstract
We used TACT computer software to teach Joseph Conrad's novel Heart of Darkness to BA (Hops) students at the University of Luton in England. Conrad's novel is one of the texts used in the ‘Language and New Literatures’ modules (units). In these modules we combine analytical approaches to literary texts with linguistic methods. We used TACT to reinforce the understanding of the text of Heart of Darkness achieved through such a combination of methods. An exposure to the computer-based approaches to the text described in this article made the students' interaction with the text a more complex and rewarding experience.
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Jon Mills is a Lecturer in Linguistics, University of Luton. His research interests include technology enhanced learning, lexicology, and the Cornish language. Recent publication: ‘Computers in Applied Linguistics’ in Solving Language Problems: From General to Applied Linguistics R.R.K. Hartmann, ed. Exeter: Exeter University Press (1996). ISBN 0 85989 484 3
Dr. Balasubramanyam Chandramohan is a senior Lecturer in Linguistics, University of Luton. His research interests include Literary Stylistics; Language Variation, especially through comparative study of language corpora. Recent Publication: A Study in Trans-Ethnicity in Modern South Africa: The Writings of Alex La Guma (1925–1985) (Lewiston, NY: Edwin Mellen, 1992), 292 pp.; ISBN 0-7734-9186-4. ‘Code-switching and Literary Texts: a pedagogical experience’, Proceedings of Summer School on Code-switching and Language Contact (Ljouwert/Leeuwarden, Holland: Fryske Academy, 1995), pp. 299–301.
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Mills, J., Chandramohan, B. “Literary studies: A computer assisted teaching methodology”. Comput Hum 30, 165–170 (1996). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00419793
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00419793