Using video recordings of a collaborative writing task carried out on a shared computer in an English as a foreign language class, this chapter explores the "epistemic ecology" of correcting spellings, where knowledge of spelling is unevenly distributed, i.e. the knowledge available to the typist, the other student (the non-typist) and…

This review surveys and synthesizes the findings of 87 focal pieces, published primarily since 2009 and mid 2018, on the formal and informal use of social media--blogs, wikis, and social networking--for second and foreign language teaching and learning (L2TL), including studies on the use of educational sites like Livemocha and Busuu and…

The advent of the social web brought with it challenges and opportunities for research on learning and knowledge construction. Using the online-encyclopedia Wikipedia as an example, we discuss several methods that can be applied to analyze the dynamic nature of knowledge-related processes in mass collaboration environments. These methods can help…

Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL) for 4th Year EFL Student Teachers is a complementary language teaching methodology course, with a specific focus on computer-assisted language learning approaches, methods, techniques and procedures as well as the computer-based tools, devices, applications and facilities that can be used to facilitate…

Computer-supported learning and knowledge building play an increasing role in online collaboration. This paper outlines some theories concerning the interplay between individual processes of learning and collaborative processes of knowledge building. In particular, it describes the co-evolution model that attempts to examine processes of learning…

This paper addresses issues of language use and negotiation and utilizes cultural-historical activity theory (CHAT) as a framework to analyze and understand the complexity of the mediational and collaborative structures constituting computer supported collaborative writing in a second language (CSCWL2) activities. Following an introduction to CHAT…

Composition teachers have generally embraced collaborative learning in the years since Kenneth Bruffee published his first article promoting its advantages in "College English" in 1972. But assigning collaboratively written papers in an introductory college writing course is still rare. This study assesses the benefits and drawbacks of assigning a…

One critical issue arising in the educational use of collaborative learning concerns the teacher's difficulty in evaluating the contribution and participation of each student in group-work. This article aims to illustrate and discuss a methodology that enables evaluation of the collaborative learning process based on co-writing in a wiki…

This study reports findings from an experimental field study of scripted collaboration for net-based learning in the context of a one-semester university course on operating systems. In scripted collaboration, activities of learners are coordinated and guided according to particular rules, implemented via respective tools in the learning…

Online discussion can be designed to develop the skills and confidence of students as well as providing an opportunity for constructing knowledge. If students decide not to participate or join too late, they put their own development and the quality of the learning community at risk. This article reflects on a first term undergraduate experience…

Examines the work of five researchers who have conducted studies of writing with computers or writing with computer-assisted instruction in the following areas: composing with word processing; writing improvement attributed to computers; instructional software; computer networks for writing; and collaborative writing through telecommunications.…

Describes two models for using the Electronic Networks for Interaction (ENFI) systems in writing instruction. Identifies the aims as (1) advancing traditional interests of the English department; (2) encouraging collaborative writing; and (3) increasing student freedom. Provides examples of student writings resulting from the traditional teacher…

Presents findings from an ethnographic study of four high school basic writers collaborating on an assignment in their school's computer lab. Finds that the students were largely unsuccessful as writers and as collaborators--three of the students became, for the most part, nonwriters. Suggests that computer-assisted writing environments may result…

Describes the use of local area networks (LANs) in basic college composition instruction. Offers examples of interchanges between student writers and peers reacting to compositions. Argues for freer student use of classroom networks in open discourse, as excessive limits on network use eviscerate its potential. (SG)

This paper describes the use of collaborative writing software and simultaneous electronic chats in an English as a Second Language (ESL) class. Most ESL students have little experience using word processing software, and most have no keyboarding experience. Using electronic chat sessions assists ESL students with sentence construction, vocabulary…