Abstract

The dissertation will explore the effectiveness of an online language learning course and in particular whether learners develop a global community of practice. Qualitative research will be carried out which will involve a case study of four Japanese EFL learners. In depth data will be collected, which will evaluate my online course and analyse the perceptions of the participants involved.

Rationale

“Teaching online is not the future anymore. It is an important part of the here and now of language teaching education. Teachers need to know what tools are out there and what techniques can help them use these tools.” (Clandfield, 2010: 3)

It is no longer necessary for learning to be confined to the classroom. The online environment provides flexible learning, where students can connect with learners globally and learn at their own pace. This dissertation will assist in evaluating my online course and will explore four participants perceptions and attitudes towards leaning, in this fully on line environment.

Literature in the Area of Study

•Beetham, H. and Sharpe, R.(2007) Rethinking pedagogy for a digital age : designing and delivering e-learning. New York : Routledge•Carrington, V. and Robinson, M.(2009) Digital Literacies: Social Learning and Classroom Practices.London: SAGE Publications Ltd.•Dudeney, G. and Hockley, N.(2007) How to Teach English With Technology.Pearson: Longman.•Hockley, N. and Clandfield, L. (2010) Teaching Online: Tools and Techniques, Options and Opportunities. Surrey: Delta Publishing•Lankshear, C. & Knobel, M. (2006) New Literacies>:Everyday Practices & Classroom Learning. Berkshire: Open University Press.•Salmon, G. (2000) E-moderating : the key to teaching and learning online.London ; Sterling, VA : Kogan•Salmon, G. (2002) E-tivities: the Key to Active Online Learning. London: Kogan•Wenger, E. (1998) Communities of Practice: Learning, Meaning and Identity. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.•Wenger, E. (2009) Digital Habitats: Stewarding Technology for Communities.Portland: Cpsquare.

How effectively can an online language learning course encourage the development of a community of practice amongst EFL learners?

Andy Webster (s1013230)— MScTESOL Edinburgh University

Timetable For the DissertationResearch Design and Methods

The following questions will be addressed in accordance with the online course:•How can web 2.0 tools contribute to developing meaningful and collaborative tasks?•What are the students beliefs and perceptions about learning within an online language learning community?•What role does the teacher have in supporting and facilitating an OLL community?

Date Section Activity

May • Literature Review

• Methodology

• Write up literature review

• Write up method and design

June Field Work • Conduct field work• collect data

July • Analysis• Discussion

• Analyse data and write findings.

• Write discussion

August • Conclusion• Finish

• Write Conclusion• Proof read

An intrinsic case study will be conducted with four Japanese EFL learners participating in my one month online course. During this time, a formative evaluation of the course will be carried out , in order to gain a greater understanding of teaching and learning online. Triangulation of data:•Formative evaluation of online course. •Reflective journal.•Interview participants. •Analysis of discussions and work produced online.

“Teachers’ must learn to recognise the social processes that technology enables and understand how to support these processes as a way to foster the emergence of meaningful communities.” Wenger(2009: 191)