Learner language in dyadic telecollaborative reciprocal language exchange.

Abstract

This is a small-scale, qualitative study describing the learner language found in interaction between two learners working in telecollaborative reciprocal language exchange via Skype. A sociocultural approach to second language acquisition is utilized along with the analytic framework of Language Related Episodes (LREs) to interpret and describe the data. Instances of languaging about language are discussed in their relation to opportunities for acquisition. Results show that learners frequently language about meaning based items rather than morphosyntactic concerns. This is in keeping with related synchronous computer mediated communication (SCMC) research. Directions for future research related to this and other similar data are discussed as well as the pedagogical implications for teachers working with students in reciprocal language exchange.