Scaffolding of Wikipedia translation for technology-enhanced language learning

2021 ◽  
Vol 55 (1) ◽  
pp. 13-35
Author(s):  
Aletta Mweneni Hautemo ◽  
Michele Van der Merwe
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Student Teachers ◽  
Use Of Technology ◽  
Language Classroom ◽  
Technological Tools ◽  
Mediating Tools ◽  
Good Resource ◽  
Interpretative Framework

This paper reports on the fi ndings from training on language learning of pre service language student teachers on the translation of English Wikipedia articles into Oshikwanyama and Oshindonga. The interpretative framework of scaffolding was used to conduct the training. The study involved a group of 24 pre-service language student and teachers from a university in Namibia. Data was generated  through the observation of the Wikipedia translation  intervention referred to above. An openended questionnaire that served as a tool for refl ection on the translation was also used. The participants made use of several mediating technological tools (computers, internet, the  Wikipedia website, and online dictionaries) as well as language books and  dictionaries to translate articles on the Wikipedia website from English, the students’ second language, into Oshikwanyama/Oshindonga, their home languages. The fi ndings suggest that Wikipedia is a good resource for helping student teachers integrate the use of technology into their language learning in the fi rst-language classroom. It also offers student teachers a chance to develop strategies that scaffold learning in a structured way, using both technological and language mediating tools that are accessible and convenient to use.

(In)Commensurable Discourse: Researchers and Practitioners Bring Pragmatics to Language Learning

2010 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Julie M. Sykes
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Empirical Research ◽  
Primary Component ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Language Classroom ◽  
Growing Body ◽  
Valuable Role

AbstractThe recent surge in a growing body of empirical research is evidence of a strong theoretical push towards L2 pragmatic acquisition in the field of second language acquisition; yet, the reality is that we see very little evidence of pragmatics instruction in L2 contexts, suggesting a notable disconnect between theory and practice. This viewpoints article explores the valuable role both researchers and practitioners play in bridging the gap between theory and practice with the intention of bringing pragmatics to the forefront of the language classroom. It briefly discusses the importance of including pragmatics as a primary component of second language (L2) learning and then explores various obstacles to pragmatics instruction, paying special attention to the role both researchers and practitioners can play in overcoming them. Examples from current projects related to L2 Spanish pragmatics are presented where relevant.

Deployment of the formulaic utterance “how about∼” in task-based second language classroom discussions

2021 ◽  
Vol 18 (4) ◽  
pp. 425-446
Author(s):  
David Aline ◽  
Yuri Hosoda
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
Interaction Analysis ◽  
Classroom Interaction ◽  
Fine Grained ◽  
Japanese Learners Of English ◽  
Language Classroom ◽  
Alternative Procedures ◽  
Japanese Learners

Abstract Formulaic speech has long been of interest in studies of second language learning and pragmatic use as production and comprehension of formulaic utterances requires less processing and production effort and, therefore, allows for greater fluency. This study scrutinizes the sequential positions and actions of one formulaic utterance “how about∼” from the participants’ perspective. This conversation analytic study offers a fine-grained microanalysis of student interaction during classroom peer discussion activities. The data consist of over 54 h of video-recorded classroom interaction. Analysis revealed several positions and actions of “how about∼” as it occurs during peer discussions by Japanese learners of English. Emerging from analysis was a focus on how learners deploy this formulaic utterance to achieve various actions within sequences of interaction. Analysis revealed that participants used “how about∼” for (a) explicitly selecting next speaker, (b) shifting topics, (c) proposing a solution, and (d) suggesting alternative procedures. Although the formula was deployed to perform these four different actions, consistent throughout all instances was the disclosure of learner orientation to the progressivity of the task interaction. The findings show how language learners deploy this formulaic utterance in discussion tasks designed for language learning and highlights the pragmatic functions of this phrase.

scholarly journals Teachers’ Perception of Motivational Strategies in the Language Classroom

EL LE ◽  
2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Giacomo Cucinotta
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Foreign Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Learning Process ◽  
Classroom Climate ◽  
Second Language Learning ◽  
Cross Cultural ◽  
Language Teachers ◽  
Motivational Strategies ◽  
Language Classroom

Motivation can determine success or failure in second language learning process, however there is a limited number of published investigations dedicated to motivational strategies in a European context. The purpose of the present study is to replicate Cheng’s and Dörnyei’s (2007) research to test the validity of their findings in a different cultural milieu. 101 foreign language (FL) and second language (L2) teachers were asked to rate a list of 47 motivational strategies according based on the degree of importance they perceived. In addition, they were also invited to specify how they acquainted with each strategy. The results of the study suggest that, even though the use of motivational strategies is decidedly context-dependent, the prevailing importance of some strategies might be cross-cultural. In particular, strategies related to classroom climate could also be considered as preconditions to employ further strategies. The highest-rated strategies are also indicated as acquired mostly through experience, which highlights the far too little attention that motivational strategies have so far received in education programmes for the formation of language teachers.

World CALL: Are We Connected?

2019 ◽  
Vol 39 ◽  
pp. 59-73
Author(s):  
Mike Levy
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Digital Literacy ◽  
Second Language Learning ◽  
New Technologies ◽  
The Internet ◽  
Authentic Materials ◽  
Input And Output ◽  
Language Classroom ◽  
The World

AbstractIn the last 20 years we have moved from a somewhat idealistic vision of the internet to one that is far more nuanced and complex. Disruption and change now surround us in a more uncertain and unpredictable world (Foer, 2017; Greenfield, 2017; Lanier, 2018; O'Neil, 2016). This article examines some of the key changes in the wider world and how they may relate to the use of new technologies in second language learning. This topic is approached from three perspectives that have thus far been relatively unexplored. First, the article looks at digital literacy, a cognate field that has long been motivated by issues and concerns relating to educational technology and the classroom–world connection. Second, it considers the role and use of authentic materials and texts. Third, it contrasts notions of input and output as these terms apply to humans and machines, and as they are used in research on second language learning.The goal throughout is to highlight the benefits of increased connectivity between the wider world and the world of the language classroom. Through increased awareness and informed debate, it is hoped this will place us in a stronger position to understand and plan for the changes ahead.

Comprehension, Comprehensibility, and Learning in the Second Language Classroom

1985 ◽  
Vol 7 (2) ◽  
pp. 216-232 ◽  
Author(s):  
Craig Chaudron
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Classroom Behavior ◽  
Positive Influence ◽  
Language Instruction ◽  
Target Language ◽  
Instructional Behaviors ◽  
Language Classroom ◽  
L2 Development ◽  
Instructional Settings

Two questions are fundamental to research on second language learning in instructional settings: (1) Does second language instruction have a positive influence on acquisition? and (2) If so, what factors in instruction make a difference, how, and for whom? This paper considers theory and research on second language classroom behavior that is aimed toward answering the second question, given evidence that the answer to the first one is affirmative.Theory suggests that the provision of comprehensible input, a focus on formal aspects of the target language, and the learner's opportunity to practice the target language, all may contribute to L2 development. Empirical research is reviewed to explore what modifications of teacher speech might influence comprehensibility, whether amount of exposure to target forms is related to learners' development, and which instructional behaviors might lead to productive practice with and knowledge about the target language.

Culture Through Poetry

2020 ◽  
pp. 29-43
Author(s):  
Hannah Grace Morrison
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Classroom Environment ◽  
Language Poetry ◽  
Cultural Artifact ◽  
Language Structure ◽  
Basic Language ◽  
Language Classroom ◽  
The Many ◽  
Culture And Language

Culture is an essential and challenging part of teaching a second language. For the basic language classroom, instructors play a fundamental role in presenting and creating a space for learning about language forms themselves and learning about how that language is used in context. Poetry is a unique way to analyze both language and cultural artifact. There are a plethora of forms that are represented within poetry, and there are many ways to connect language learning to culture itself. Instructors must take initiative and be intentional with each activity that is incorporated into learning a new language. Poetry is but one of the many ways that culture and language can be analyzed thoroughly, and in this chapter, poetry forms are analyzed as both language structure examples and as a cultural and contextual resource that enriches the classroom environment.

The use of English as a lingua franca in the Japanese second language classroom

2018 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 131-151 ◽  
Author(s):  
Blake Turnbull
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Learning Environments ◽  
First Language ◽  
Lingua Franca ◽  
Proficiency Level ◽  
Language Classroom ◽  
English Speaking

AbstractDespite the growing interest surrounding the use and role of the first language in the second language classroom, the vast majority of research in the field has been conducted in classrooms where English is taught as a second language in English-speaking countries. Very little research has investigated the role of English as a lingua franca (ELF) in other language learning environments, such as those in which Japanese is learnt as a second language (JSL) in Japan. This paper investigates the purposes for which ELF is employed, and the perspectives of learners from multilingual and multicultural backgrounds on the use of ELF, in the JSL classroom. The findings show that English is employed to varying degrees in relation to proficiency level, and that learners themselves are generally welcoming of this use. The author suggests that learners seek security and comfort in what they already know, with ELF easing the gap between their L1 and their developing Japanese skills.

scholarly journals A systematic review of CALL in English as a second language: Focus on primary and secondary education

2011 ◽  
Vol 45 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-43 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ernesto Macaro ◽  
Zöe Handley ◽  
Catherine Walter
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Second Language ◽  
Second Language Acquisition ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Research Effort ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Policy Makers ◽  
Use Of Technology ◽  
Beneficial Impact ◽  
Technological Developments

After explaining why consideration of the use of technology in second language (L2) teaching in the primary and secondary sectors is necessary, this systematic review presents a keyword map of 117 studies of technology in L2 learning since 1990. It reveals that research effort in these educational sectors has increased in line with technological developments and there have been important differences between the primary and secondary sectors in the adoption of applications. There then follows an in-depth review of 47 post-2000 studies investigating the efficacy of technology in the teaching of L2 English. It asks what technology has been used and why, what evidence there is that technology facilitates language learning, and what other insights can be drawn from the research in this field. The evidence that technology has a direct beneficial impact on linguistic outcomes is slight and inconclusive, but it may impact indirectly and positively on learner attitudes and behaviours and may promote collaboration. On the whole, the research reviewed lacked the quality that would reassure practitioners and policy-makers that technological investment is warranted. We argue that future research needs to provide a tighter link between technological applications, Second Language Acquisition (SLA) theory, and learning outcomes.

Understanding the Sequential Resources for Doing Humor in the Language Classroom

2015 ◽  
Vol 28 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-23 ◽  
Author(s):  
Elizabeth Reddington ◽  
Hansun Zhang Waring
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Workplace Communication ◽  
Analytic Framework ◽  
Social Functions ◽  
Naturally Occurring ◽  
Everyday Talk ◽  
Language Classroom ◽  
Preliminary Consideration ◽  
Do So

AbstractHumor scholars have made great strides in identifying markers of humor such as prosody and laughter as well as the various social functions of humor in both everyday talk and workplace communication. Less research has been devoted to understanding the mechanisms of humor or how humor is done in naturally occurring interaction. Based on videotaped data from adult English-as-a-second-language (ESL) classrooms, we describe a specific set of sequential resources for producing humor in the language classroom and do so within a conversation analytic framework. We also give some preliminary consideration to the applicability of the findings in other interactional contexts as well as to the question of whether participants are oriented towards moments of humor as opportunities for language learning.

scholarly journals REVITALIZING EDUCATION THROUGH: INTEGRATING TELEGRAM AS CORRECTIVE FEEDBACK IN LANGUAGE TEACHING

2017 ◽  
Vol 17 (1) ◽  
pp. 6
Author(s):  
Muhammad Ladan Bello ◽  
Hadiza Bello Dange
Keyword(s):  
Second Language ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Language Teaching ◽  
Corrective Feedback ◽  
Language Teachers ◽  
Smart Phones ◽  
Handheld Device ◽  
Use Of Technology ◽  
Language Classroom ◽  
Second Language Teachers

Recently the use of technology and its integration into the curriculum has gained a great importance. One of this technological devices is mobile phones which is usually banned at school due to the distractions and problems caused by different built-in and installed applications, However, the use of these installed applications such as Telegram on these handheld device especially smart phones in second language teaching is going to assist in effective language teaching and allow students to actively participate in teaching and learning. Keeping all these in mind, the purpose of this presentation is to provide the required information for second language teachers so that they can make use of Telegram efficiently in language classroom.

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