l2 learners’ stories evidence from language exchange communities as an autonomous learning tool

L2 Learners’ stories: Evidence from language

exchange communities as an autonomous learning tool

Cem BALÇIKANLI

Gazi University

English Language Teaching Department

E-mail: balcikanli@gazi.edu.tr

English as an International Language Conference,

İzmir - 2009

Outline

1* web technologies in language learning

2* language exchange communities- how they work?

3* study

4* conclusions

2

One way

Exclusive

Web designer

Static

In the hands of few

WEB 1.0

3

Social networks

CollaborationCo-creation

Shared controlMy Web

WEB 2.0

4

Today’s students are Digital Natives (Marc Prensky, 2001)

•Visual learners•Multi-taskers•Short attention spans•Use technology to express

themselves • Information analysts•Content producers•Real-time learners -

instant messages.

5

Examples of Web 2.0 Technologies

New technologies (self-access multimedia

facilities, for instance) provide the practical

means whereby learners can take a more

active part in decisions involved in learning.

Raya, M. K. & Fernandez, J. M. P. (2002). Learner Autonomy and New Technologies. Educational Media

International.39 (1) 61-68

7

language exchange communities

8

9

10

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Worldia

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The english language institute, in the University of Florida

five international students learning english

Mixxer, Worldia interview

13

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Is it easy to use?

Is it interesting?  Why? 

Is it good for English practice?  How?

How does it contribute to your independent

skills?

What other special features does it have?

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Extracts from students

… it keeps me alert in English.

…you can only learn some in class, so tools outside the classroom are important.

…thanks to this, I feel I have developed more awareness for my learning.

… it is very good for English practice.

… I feel less nervous when I practice English with it.

… it is essential in a way that it increases contact with language

…it is very motivating to use it.

… I can practice English in a way that I want.

…the potential use for language learning is great as it helps foster learner autonomy.

… I can learn daily expressions through this website.

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Language awareness

Learner independence

Less threatened atmosphere

Learner interaction

Authentic Language Exposure

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THANK YOU