ERIC Number: EJ812206
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2008-May
Pages: 25
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0958-3440
EISSN: N/A
Virtual Interaction through Video-Web Communication: A Step towards Enriching and Internationalizing Language Learning Programs
Jauregi, Kristi; Banados, Emerita
ReCALL, v20 n2 p183-207 May 2008
This paper describes an intercontinental project with the use of interactive tools, both synchronous and asynchronous, which was set up to internationalize academic learning of Spanish language and culture. The objective of this case study was to investigate whether video-web communication tools can contribute to enriching the quality of foreign language curricula, by facilitating a motivating virtual communication environment for purposeful interaction between non native and native speakers of Spanish to accomplish learning tasks. The project was carried out between a class of twenty Spanish as foreign language students from the University of Utrecht, The Netherlands, and a class of twenty Chilean trainee Spanish teachers from the University of Concepcion, Chile. Students interacted weekly, over two months, in dyads and small groups making use of a video-web communication tool, "Adobe Connect." The video-web communication tool enabled synchronous interactions, during which participants could see each other while talking and sharing audiovisual documents on-line. A blog was also used to promote collaboration, reflection and exchange of ideas about issues raised during the synchronous sessions. Qualitative data was collected through a questionnaire, analysis of recordings of learners' interaction sessions and the project blog. Results show a positive impact on motivation and on learning outcomes, particularly regarding understanding of the use of language in given contexts, and of cultural issues.
Descriptors: Language Usage, Web Sites, Electronic Publishing, Second Language Learning, Language Teachers, Foreign Countries, Spanish, Native Speakers, Cultural Awareness, Computer Mediated Communication, Interactive Video, Questionnaires, Learning Motivation, Outcomes of Education, Preservice Teachers
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Chile; Netherlands
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A