ERIC Number: EJ1192915
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2018-Oct
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
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ISSN: EISSN-1094-3501
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Exploring the Affordances of Telepresence Robots in Foreign Language Learning
Liao, Jian; Lu, Xiaofei
Language Learning & Technology, v22 n3 p20-32 Oct 2018
The importance of authentic communicative practices in foreign language (FL) learning has long been recognized. However, most FL learners lack adequate access to authentic communicative environments in the target language. In this article, we propose the use of telepresence robots as a potential solution to bridge this gap. Telepresence robots can be controlled by remote language learners online, enabling them to gain virtual access to authentic environments in the target language and to interact with native speakers in those environments in real time. In this exploratory study, three English learners and a native-speaker of American English participated in a campus tour activity using a telepresence robot. We examined the experience of our participants and the conversational features of their telepresence interactions through analyses of the interview data, field notes, and transcripts of conversations captured on video. Our findings show that telepresence robots have substantial potential for promoting FL learning by providing authentic communicative practice for remote language learners. The findings have useful implications for informing future research design.
Descriptors: Robotics, English (Second Language), Second Language Learning, Second Language Instruction, Video Technology, Computer Simulation, Native Speakers, Computer Mediated Communication, Student Attitudes, Distance Education, Learning Strategies, Chinese, Native Language, Overseas Employment, Adult Students, Learning Experience, Positive Attitudes
University of Hawaii National Foreign Language Resource Center. 1859 East-West Road #106, Honolulu, HI 96822. Tel: 808-956-9424; Fax: 808-956-5983; e-mail: llt@hawaii.edu; Web site: http://llt.msu.edu
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Adult Education
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Language: English
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