University of Évora Évora, 27 – 30 November 2002 Language – Communication – Culture International Conference
To chat or not to chat in the EFL classroom, that is the question! Teresa Almeida d'Eça Évora, 29 th November 2002 Évora, 29 th November 2002
Évora, 29 November 2002 INTRODUCTION: LANGUAGE – COMMUNICATION – CULTURE "Language is a powerful means to communicate... [that] has proven to be a superior tool toward... help[ing] others reach higher states of knowledge." (Lynne T. Diaz-Rico) "Communication is the key to education, understanding and peace." (James Bryce)
Évora, 29 November 2002 CHAT synchronous two-way communication computer-mediated communication (CMC)
CHAT AND WEBHEADS IN ACTION an international online group of EFL/ESL teachers a community of practice a multicultural community who speaks different varieties of English "a support group for those interested in learning and doing CMC" Évora, 29 November 2002
CHAT AND THE LEARNING PROCESS 3 chat modes textaudiovideo diversified and comprehensive learning
Évora, 29 November 2002 TAPPED IN (campus and reception) a multi-user virtual environment (MUVE) a CyberCampus
Évora, 29 November 2002 YAHOO MESSENGER '3 in 1' mode: text, audio and videoconferencing the '4 in 1 tool': practice the four basic skills
Évora, 29 November 2002 APPLICATIONS OF CHAT TO THE EFL (ESL) CLASSROOM setting: cyberspace strong emphasis on communication and authentic language talk about the 'real' world, with 'real' people, in 'real' time intensive practice in 2 or 4 basic skills
Évora, 29 November 2002 CHAT AND THE EFL (ESL) CLASSROOM: ADVANTAGES added motivation and excitement learning by interacting with real people collaborative and cooperative learning interactions at 3 different levels: p2p / t2s / m2s communicative skills and technological competencies social skills transferable skills
Évora, 29 November 2002 CHAT AND THE EFL (ESL) CLASSROOM: DISADVANTAGES oversimplified language "Nu Shortcuts in School R 2 Much 4 Teachers" (Jennifer 8. Lee) (sic) u - r - ur - b4 - l8r - wuz - cuz - 2 jk - nm - oic - brb - ttyl - lol time zones and limit to participants technical problems
Évora, 29 November 2002 CHAT AND CONFLICTING OR COMPLEMENTARY TOOLS? complementary tools same basic aim: communication a more fascinating, authentic and enriching experience
Évora, 29 November 2002 SUGGESTIONS / PRACTICAL ADVICE care in the choice of platform start small set a task for each session monitor student work both on and off line
Évora, 29 November 2002 CONCLUSION fascination, excitement, enrichment community online building intense and real(-time) practice of language tremendous potential for professional development fun, healthy socializing, mutual support and true friendship
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