Language learning in different modes: Does technology make a difference?

In the past decade, the use of technology for foreign language instruction has expanded rapidly and with it has come the expectation that online methods of teaching will supersede other more traditional methods of language learning. This article reports on a longitudinal study of Australian students studying French in three different modes. The results indicate that performance and achievement in 'open learning' mode where students self-direct their own learning, has the most successful approach, and that multimedia enhanced teaching of foreign languages is highly successful.