Collaborative scaffolding in online task-based voice interactions between advanced learners

M.-M. Kenning

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This paper reports some of the findings of a distinctive innovative use of audio-conferencing involving a population (campus-based advanced learners) and a type of application (task-based language learning) that have received little attention to date: the use of Wimba Voice Tools to provide additional opportunities for spoken interactions between advanced learners of French. The experiment had a dual aim: (a) to examine the suitability of Wimba Voice Tools as an environment for sustained interactive talk, and (b) to study the nature of interactions between advanced learners, with particular reference to the processes supporting collaborative activity. After a brief summary of the rationale and main characteristics of the experiment, the paper focuses on the strategies used by three non-native speaker (NNS) dyads to resolve language problems as they worked on a set of four tasks. Extending the classical model of negotiation for meaning to cover other instances of language-related episodes identified through discourse analysis of the empirical data, the study offers a detailed account of the incidence and nature of negotiated interaction and collaboration between partners. This leads to a discussion covering the impact of functionalities, scaffolding and task effects. The paper ends with some suggestions for future research.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)135-151
Number of pages17
JournalReCALL
Volume22
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1 May 2010

Keywords

  • Voice chat
  • negotiation for meaning
  • learner collaboration
  • scaffolding
  • task effects
  • advanced learners

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