A TV Conference System across Asian institutions: A trial of project-based SLA using communicative media as an effective way to develop pragmatic and discourse competence Shigeo Suzuki, Nagoya University, JAPAN Mark Weeks , Nagoya University , JAPAN

Adoption of e-learning Effective use of this medium ? faster access to information ? replacement of face-to-face educational experiences

The position of Videoconference program

Educational settings in Japan

Interaction via TV conference system To achieve such goals, we have set up tasks for a group of two to five Japanese students to interact via a TV conference system with another group of ESL learners in Asian countries, such as Thailand, Taiwan, and Sri Lanka.

Pre-interaction : Video clips

Pre-interaction : PowerPoint files

Pre-interaction : Homepage

Benefits of videoconferencing To implement this task, we have also provided a website where both groups can communicate with one another on an asynchronous basis. This includes self-introduction, exchanging views, and uploading any related e-materials.

Task 1: Selecting a theme First Task Stage Task 1: Selecting a theme ONLINE ON-CAMPUS Task 2-1: Writing self-introduction To implement this task, we have also provided a website where both groups can communicate with one another on an asynchronous basis. This includes self-introduction, exchanging views, and uploading any related e-materials. Task 2-2: Exchanging opinions via chat on the homepage ACROSS- CAMPUS

Task 1: Selecting a theme Second Task Stage Task 1: Selecting a theme ON-CAMPUS ONLINE Task 3-1: Doing research on their theme To implement this task, we have also provided a website where both groups can communicate with one another on an asynchronous basis. This includes self-introduction, exchanging views, and uploading any related e-materials. Task 3-2: Creating a video clip

Task 4-1: Creating a presentation file Third Task Stage Task 4-1: Creating a presentation file ON-CAMPUS ONLINE Task 4-2: Rehearsals To implement this task, we have also provided a website where both groups can communicate with one another on an asynchronous basis. This includes self-introduction, exchanging views, and uploading any related e-materials. Task 4-3: Synchronic interaction ACROSS- CAMPUS

Synchronic interaction format Duration of time Contents 10 min. self-introduction (alternating Japanese and Sri Lankan members ) 20 min. PowerPoint presentation based upon summary files (Sri Lankan students) brief question time to presentation (From Japanese to Sri Lankan students) PowerPoint presentation based upon summary files (Japanese students) brief question time to presentation (From Sri Lankan to Japanese students) 50 min. Discussion based upon summary files and presentations (All students and, if needs be, the staff )

Advantages of video conferencing Extending and enhancing the learning experience: →Collaboration and Connectivity

Advantages of video conferencing A few equipment: Easy to handle

A feasible blended model An example of a video conferencing