Writing to Learn Via Text Chat: Task Implementation and Focus on Form

Research has shown that task-based computer-mediated communication(CMC) can foster attention to linguistic form in ways that may promote language learning(c.f., Blake, 2000; Smith, 2003, 2005). However, relatively little research has investigated how differences in the way that tasks are used in CMC...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Nik Aloesnita, Nik Mohd Alwi, Adams, Rebecca, Newton, Jonathan
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Elsevier 2012
Subjects:
Online Access:http://umpir.ump.edu.my/id/eprint/6774/1/Writing%20to%20Learn%20Via%20Text%20Chat-%20Task%20Implementation%20and%20Focus%20on%20Form.pdf
http://umpir.ump.edu.my/id/eprint/6774/
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jslw.2011.12.001
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:Research has shown that task-based computer-mediated communication(CMC) can foster attention to linguistic form in ways that may promote language learning(c.f., Blake, 2000; Smith, 2003, 2005). However, relatively little research has investigated how differences in the way that tasks are used in CMC settings influence learning opportunities during the task. In an attempt to shed light on the manner in which second language (L2) writing may contribute to L2 development, this chapter presents an empirical study of how two implementation features (degree of task structure and provision of language support) of a writing group task in simultaneous text-CMC influenced learner attention to linguistic form. The analysis draws on data from text chat performance and post-task group interviews to illustrate how aspects of task implementation in a technology-enhanced learning environment may promote attention to language expression and encourage collaborative work on language errors during writing task performance.