Asynchronous Collaboration Integrating Online Learning in the Foreign Language Classroom

Year 2018, Volume: 8 Issue: 2, 101 - 108, 30.06.2018

Bushra Wilkins

Abstract

Collaboration is an inherent part of education and business processes today. With
nearly global availability of online access, the diversified nature of learning is no
longer tied to a traditional classroom setting. In an educational environment, be it a
traditional or virtual setting, collaborative activities can greatly facilitate learning
through realistic contexts and engage learners by devising solutions to complex
problems. Regardless if a group of students working on a common project are co-
located or geographically dispersed, interjecting an element of online collaboration
can contribute greatly to the success of a group effort. In SLA/SLL and foreign
language learning environments involving adult learners, interaction and
collaboration are fundamental elements of the learning process through which
knowledge is transferred and assimilated (Mitchell & Myles, 2004). In this paper, the
rationale and a process of implementing online collaboration activities in a face-to-
face (FTF) foreign language learning setting is presented. 

Keywords

Asynchronous Collaboration, Foreign Language, Asynchronous Online Discussion, Online Interactions

References

• Aljumah, F. (2012). Saudi learner perceptions and attitudes towards the use of blogs in teaching English writing course for EFL majors at Qassim university. English Language Teaching, 5(1), 100. doi:10.5539/elt.v5nlp100