YOU’RE NOT STUDYING, YOU’RE JUST…

Do you have the same problems in language education? In COMMENTARY: YOU’RE NOT STUDYING, YOU’RE JUST…, Ravi Purushotma puts forward an idea that educators should embrace and modify entertainment-focused media forms in language education. In order to illustrate and support his opinion, the author takes his own language learning experience, in which he took great advantages of […]

Digital Gaming and Second Language Learning

Introduction: Digital gaming is deemed differently when it comes to language learning. Some people believe that it makes great contributions to the five important areas in L2 Learning (goals, interaction, feedback, context, and motivation), while others hold the view that it is addictive and non-educational. Taking two popular digital games in China named as “Traveling […]

Computer-Mediated Communication and Second Language Use

We have read an encyclopedia article by Abrams that summarizes research into computer-mediated communication in the context of second language education. Abrams points out that it has been acknowledged that computer-mediated communication (CMC) is conducive to second language teaching and learning. Research findings suggest that in comparison with face-to-face interactions, CMC enables learners to engage […]

Is writing fanfiction helpful?

Introduction This blog post tries to explore how fanfiction net offered by networked technologies and fan culture help English language learners develop their English language and writing skills by doing a case study on Nanako, a Chinese immigrant who posts her stories and maintain ing the discussion committed to a Japanese writer. From Nanako’s stories, it […]

The Use of Web 2.0 Functions in Foreign Language Learning Websites

By Grace Wang and Camie Kwok The homepage of Babbel (Photo Credit: Babbel.com) Highlights of Stevenson and Liu (2010)’s article on foreign language learning websites: In recent years, some foreign language learning websites have incorporated Web 2.0 functions. Specifically, they allow users to interact with native speakers of their target languages. Stevenson and Liu (2010) […]