Language learning effects through the integration of synchronous online communication: The case of video communication and Second Life

Abstract This article attempts to shed some light on the possible learning benefits for language acquisition and intercultural development of authentic social interaction with expert peers through computer mediated communication (CMC) tools. The environments used in this study are video communication and the 3D virtual world Second Life. For this research study 41 students of Spanish were randomly allocated to three conditions: (1) face-to-face control group, (2) experimental interaction group with video communication, and (3) experimental interaction group with Second Life. All students were following the same language course at B1 level and carried out 5 communication tasks. Different data sources were gathered to measure the impact that integration of CMC has on the development of the intercultural and communicative competence of L2 learners: (1) pre- and post- oral tests to measure the communicative growth of L2 learners; (2) surveys to gather participants’ experiences; and (3) recordings of communication sessions for qualitative in- depth analysis of interaction. Significant differences in the development of communicative competence were found, with experimental groups scoring significantly higher than the face-to-face control group.

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