Journal of Research on Technology in Education · 2006 · 81 citations · 26 references
Language StudiesEducational TechnologyEnglish As A Second LanguageLanguage EducationSecond Language EducationSecond Language LearningCommunication CompetenceCommunicative CompetenceEnglish Language LearningLanguage LearningLanguage TeachingOnline LearningCommunicative Competence AssessmentCommunicative Competence DevelopmentComputer-mediated Intercultural CommunicationDiscussion Board ParticipationOnline Language Learning InteractionsOnline Language TeachingPeer TalkTechnology-mediated Language Learning
This study focuses on the use of electronic discussion boards with elementary-aged English as a Second Language (ESL) students. The purpose of the study is to investigate students’ communicative competence in a computer-mediated communication environment. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were used to analyze 956 messages posted by 28 ESL students to the electronic discussion board during a six-week period of time. Changes were found in children’s use of language for social purposes and appropriate use of language in different social and cultural settings. Recommendations for teachers include the design of online discussion activities and future considerations of peer assistance in language learning.
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