Language lab

The language laboratory (more commonly referred to as language lab) is an audio or audio-visual installation used as an aid in language teaching. Current installations are often multimedia PCs.

The system generally comprises a master console controlled by the teacher, connected to a number of rows of student booths typically containing a tape recorder and headset with a microphone. The teacher's console may be fitted with some means of monitoring each booth in the class with an intercom facility offering 2-way communication between teacher and student.

Particularly suited to the repetition drills of the audio-lingual method, this type of activity is in direct opposition with communicative language teaching.