Learners of Different Language Proficiency Levels and Incidental Focus on Form in Synchronous Text-Based Discussion

2019 ◽  
pp. 1521-1539
Author(s):  
Wan-Tsai Kung ◽  
Zohreh R. Eslami
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Proficiency ◽  
Test Performance ◽  
Native Speaker ◽  
Computer Mediated Communication ◽  
Focus On Form ◽  
Mediated Communication ◽  
Nonnative Speaker ◽  
Proficiency Levels ◽  
Computer Mediated

This study examined the effectiveness of incidental focus on form in facilitating second language learning for learners of different proficiency levels in a synchronous computer-mediated communication environment. Sixteen native speaker (NS)-nonnative speaker (NNS) dyads and fourteen NNS-NNS dyads were formed. The participants completed two communicative tasks. Language-related episodes (LRE), mini-dialogues in which learners either explicitly or implicitly ask or talk about language or question their own or/and interlocutors' language use, were identified and used as a basis for individualized tailor-made tests to assess the learners' subsequent learning outcome. The results reveled that in the NS-NNS dyads, no significant difference in the frequency of LREs produced was found between the lower- and higher-proficiency learners whereas in the NNS-NNS dyads, the lower-proficiency learners produced significantly more LREs than their higher-proficiency interlocutors. Additionally, the learners of both proficiency groups interacting with NSs produced significantly more LREs than learners interacting with NNSs. However, no significant differences were found in the test performance of learners of different proficiency levels in either dyadic type.

Learners of Different Language Proficiency Levels and Incidental Focus on Form in Synchronous Text-based Discussion

2015 ◽  
Vol 5 (3) ◽  
pp. 42-59 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wan-Tsai Kung ◽  
Zohreh R. Eslami
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Proficiency ◽  
Test Performance ◽  
Native Speaker ◽  
Computer Mediated Communication ◽  
Focus On Form ◽  
Mediated Communication ◽  
Nonnative Speaker ◽  
Proficiency Levels ◽  
Significant Difference

This study examined the effectiveness of incidental focus on form in facilitating second language learning for learners of different proficiency levels in a synchronous computer-mediated communication environment. Sixteen native speaker (NS)-nonnative speaker (NNS) dyads and fourteen NNS-NNS dyads were formed. The participants completed two communicative tasks. Language-related episodes (LRE), mini-dialogues in which learners either explicitly or implicitly ask or talk about language or question their own or/and interlocutors' language use, were identified and used as a basis for individualized tailor-made tests to assess the learners' subsequent learning outcome. The results reveled that in the NS-NNS dyads, no significant difference in the frequency of LREs produced was found between the lower- and higher-proficiency learners whereas in the NNS-NNS dyads, the lower-proficiency learners produced significantly more LREs than their higher-proficiency interlocutors. Additionally, the learners of both proficiency groups interacting with NSs produced significantly more LREs than learners interacting with NNSs. However, no significant differences were found in the test performance of learners of different proficiency levels in either dyadic type.

Focus-on-Form and L2 learning in Synchronous Computer-Mediated Communication

2018 ◽  
pp. 118-139
Author(s):  
Wan-Tsai Kung ◽  
Zohreh R. Eslami
Keyword(s):  
Test Performance ◽  
Computer Mediated Communication ◽  
Learning Outcome ◽  
Focus On Form ◽  
Mediated Communication ◽  
Proficiency Levels ◽  
Subsequent Learning ◽  
Computer Mediated ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
L2 Learning

This chapter reports on a study of the effectiveness of interaction in synchronous computer-mediated communication (SCMC) context by comparing the nature of negotiations between learners of different proficiency levels in different dyadic types (NS/NNS and NNS/NNS). Dyads performed two tasks using textual SCMC interactions. Language-related episodes (LRE) were identified and used as a basis for individualized tailor-made tests to assess the learners' subsequent learning outcome. The results revealed that in the NS-NNS dyads, no significant difference in the frequency of LREs produced was found between the lower- and higher-proficiency learners whereas in the NNS-NNS dyads, the lower-proficiency learners produced significantly more LREs than their higher-proficiency interlocutors. Additionally, the learners of both proficiency groups interacting with NSs produced significantly more LREs than learners interacting with NNSs. However, no significant differences were found in the test performance of learners of different proficiency levels in either dyadic type.

scholarly journals Metalinguistic Reflection and Computer-Mediated Communication: An Interventionist approach to Language Study Abroad

2020 ◽  
Vol 23 (1) ◽  
pp. 192-210
Author(s):  
Meredith McGregor
Keyword(s):  
Study Abroad ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Proficiency ◽  
Computer Mediated Communication ◽  
Metalinguistic Awareness ◽  
Mediated Communication ◽  
Computer Mediated ◽  
Language Study ◽  
Media Platform ◽  
The Impact

This article reports on part of a mixed-methods study framed by sociocultural theory and aimed at assessing the impact of an intervention to promote metalinguistic awareness in language study abroad sojourners. Participants utilized a social media platform as a space to develop personalized e-portfolios for the purpose of in-depth metalinguistic reflection, paired with entirely computer-mediated researcher-participant mentoring. As such, this study addresses the importance of intervention in second language learning in study abroad, while also adding to the research available on its intersections within a 24/7 digitally connected world. Analysis of the data suggests that carrying out reflective practices and engaging with a mentor, even at distance, may be contributory in enhancing Spanish language proficiency. Further, this provides evidence that interventionist approaches to study abroad can be made accessible and meaningful even in the absence of significant resources, and without implementing prohibitively onerous tasks for either a student or practitioner.

Current Trends in Online Language Learning

2011 ◽  
Vol 31 ◽  
pp. 19-35 ◽  
Author(s):  
Robert J. Blake
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Computer Mediated Communication ◽  
Language Instruction ◽  
Language Games ◽  
Computer Assisted ◽  
Mediated Communication ◽  
Online Language Learning ◽  
Second Language Development ◽  
Computer Mediated ◽  
Virtual Classes

Online language learning (OLL) can take place in Web-facilitated, hybrid, or fully virtual classes. These formats are beginning to attract serious attention from the language profession and, in particular, the field of computer-assisted language learning (CALL). This article traces recent studies of online learning and then focuses in on its application to language learning through tutorial CALL, social computing, and games for language learning. I strive to show that tutorial CALL and computer-mediated communication can complement each other in the service of modern language instruction, along with the inclusion of language games. Although assessment studies of OLL remain sparse, the evidence is steadily mounting that shows that these new formats can provide learning environments conducive to successful second language development when properly integrated into the curriculum.

Promoting Autonomous Language Learning in Online Environments

10.47908/9/15 ◽  
2013 ◽  
pp. 165-280
Author(s):  
Maria De Santo ◽  
Luisa Boardman
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Computer Mediated Communication ◽  
Real Life ◽  
Autonomous Learning ◽  
Mediated Communication ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Integration Of Technology ◽  
Computer Mediated ◽  
Wide Range ◽  
The University

The Self-Access Language Centre of the University of Naples “L’Orientale” (CILA) promotes the development of autonomy in language learning, offering a wide range of technology-based resources and a language counselling service. In the last few years, to satisfy the growing need for independent language learning in our university, we have integrated autonomous learning in the SAC with online pathways and multimedia materials. We started by offering online Self-Access activities in blended courses, integrating face-to-face classroom teaching with online modules. This experiment enabled us to develop a kind of blended autonomous learning, combining a real-life SAC with online Self-Access Centres. Virtual SACs suggest a variety of language learning activities and allow learners to study a language while reflecting on their learning process. In the online SAC, language counsellors implement the language learner’s autonomy promoted in presence in the SAC, interacting with them through computer-mediated communication. In this paper we shall look at how the promotion of autonomy in language learning can be enhanced through the integration of technology-based materials and activities made available in self-access modality. Our aim is to present online resources designed to help students learn a foreign language autonomously.

Virtual worlds and language learning

2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
pp. 29-43 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sabela Melchor-Couto
Keyword(s):  
Foreign Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Teacher Perceptions ◽  
Virtual Worlds ◽  
Computer Mediated Communication ◽  
Mediated Communication ◽  
Computer Mediated ◽  
Affective Variables ◽  
One Step ◽  
The Eu

Technology has made an invaluable contribution to foreign language (FL) teaching, particularly so in recent years. The advanced technical capabilities offered by digital games, including voice and text chat, take the use of computer-mediated communication in language learning one step further, allowing for remote, anonymous and situated learner interaction. This article presents an overview on how virtual worlds (VWs) are being used for educational purposes and for FL teaching in particular. A literature review on existing research has been included, covering areas such as FL interaction, impact on affective variables and attitudes towards the use of these environments. Special attention will be devoted to how VW interaction may affect students’ anxiety, motivation and self-efficacy beliefs. Finally, teacher perceptions will be explored through the data collected among 179 secondary school FL teachers participating in the EU-funded TeCoLa project (‘Pedagogical differentiation through telecollaboration and gaming for intercultural and content integrated language teaching’).

scholarly journals Teletandem language learning in a technological context of education: interactions between Brazilian and German students

2015 ◽  
Vol 31 (3) ◽  
pp. 729-762
Author(s):  
Suelene Vaz da SILVA ◽  
Francisco José Quaresma de FIGUEIREDO
Keyword(s):  
University Students ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Environmental Science ◽  
Computer Mediated Communication ◽  
Environmental Issues ◽  
Mediated Communication ◽  
Computer Mediated ◽  
Technological Context ◽  
The University ◽  
Communication Study

ABSTRACT This paper presents data from a computer-mediated communication study conducted between a group of Brazilian university students - from Instituto Federal de Educação, Ciência e Tecnologia do Estado de Goiás, Campus Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil - who wanted to learn English, and a group of German university students - from the University of Worms, in Germany - who wanted to learn Portuguese. The cross-cultural bilingual communication was conducted in the second semester of 2010 and involved discussions on environmental issues. Adopting a qualitative perspective in the analysis, the data were derived from conversation sessions through a webconferencing software known as Openmeetings and through e-mails and some written activities developed by the students. All these were analyzed by means of sociocultural theory. Among the conclusions we reached, we observed that the participants used the software features to help them in their language learning process, discussed issues related to environmental science, as well as topics related to their personal and academic life. Regarding the languages used, the participants used English during the teletandem sessions as an anchoring language to assist their partners in learning English itself and Portuguese, as well as introduced the German language in the interaction sessions.

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