Reading Prompt 8 reply

All the technologies Levy & Stockwell discuss have their pluses and minuses. E-mail and video conferencing are the only technologies I’ve ever used. I can see why e-mail is the most popular, as many language learners are already using it to communicate. Through tandem exchanges it’s a simple and efficient way for learners to access authentic/target language. The (delayed) synchronous aspect of chat allows it to most closely resemble face-to-face interaction. I’ve never seen a MOO and after reading about it, I’m assuming it could be a fun way of experimenting with a second language. From my Air Force days, I’m familiar with VTC (video-teleconferencing) and agree it’s a potentially powerful language learning tool. Verbal and non-verbal language skills can be practiced/observed with this technology.
Collectively, these technology resources’ most promising feature is their capability to expand learners’ exposure to the target language through authentic language interaction with NS interlocutors. A major pedagogical consideration is knowing the features each type of CMC can offer, before deciding on which one would best suit the learning objective. With that, the technological and language proficiency skills of the learners should also guide pedagogical decisions about which CMC tool is the best choice: synchronous (MOOs & conferencing), delayed synchronous (chat), or asynchronous (e-mail) CMC tool. Linguistic progress can occur with sufficient participation, but I think CMC requires more attention to manage it as compared to textbooks or more traditional language learning instruments. Not a bad thing necessarily, but teachers simply need to be aware of this as they venture into the CMC arena.
Dr. Sauro’s research compared metalinguistic feedback versus recasts and found that one was not significantly more effective than the other for immediate or sustained gains in target form knowledge. The pedagogical implication is that feedback is still a critical part of language learning, whether the learning is via CALL or face-to-face. Knowing your learner type(s) and the learning objectives should be considerations when choosing type of feedback.