This text critically examines traditional methodologies for teaching grammar in the context of Portuguese as a Foreign Language (PFL). It proposes an alternative, eclectic approach, which can be used in any foreign language. Drawing on evidence from research and pedagogical practices, it highlights areas for improvement in current approaches, such…

The transformative potential of Digital Informal Learning (DIL) is evident in fostering cross-cultural understanding, with a special focus on Arabic cultural education in this case. Drawing from the case of Learn Cultural Identity (LearnCuID) groups, which are informal online learning communities, the discussion highlights how digital platforms,…

Abstract Accepted 12 November 2024 In this essay I reflect on James P. Lantolf's contributions to cultural-historical theory and second language learning. I begin with my personal subjectivity and experiences as a limited learner of additional languages beyond English. This anecdotal opening introduces the tension between formal learning in school…

Videoshadowing is a synchronous video-collaboration practice for learning foreign languages and cultures; it is related to the field of digital ethnography applied to the development of communicative competence. The study discusses this methodology's strengths as an interpretative and reflective approach; emic perception linguistic data are…

In this opinion piece we problematise foreign language (FL) learning curricula which are rigidly based on carefully sequenced input and constrained learning opportunities. Whilst an important component in language learning, language knowledge constitutes more than phonics vocabulary and grammar. Our stance is premised on the understanding that,…

Since its inception in 2005, YouTube has grown to become one of the most trafficked online platforms in the world. Accordingly, second language (L2) research interest on the topic has also increased, with studies investigating its use in formal and informal settings. Given this, the goal of this conceptual paper is to identify patterns within L2…

This paper presents Chinese heritage parents' perspectives on young children's use of technology as a tool for language and cultural learning. Growing up with Confucian heritage culture, some Chinese parents have particular cultural beliefs about learning that value effortful learning practices and the social context of learning. However, some…

This study aimed to learn the subjective experiences of higher education business students pursuing intercultural development goals. As part of their academic programs students completed the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) assessment and received intercultural competency scores. Subsequently, they created personal goals to further…

Research has indicated that resultant cross-cultural experiences from migration are precursors of transformative learning. This study explores transformative learning processes and outcomes for perspective transformation among Nigerian immigrants in Italy and the United States. Multiple-case study and convergent mixed-methods research designs were…

Language-related Study Abroad (SA) experiences can be catalysts for learner transformation in the areas of cognition, socialization, and/or affect by virtue of the location and experience. An Open Architecture Curriculum Design (OACD) framework can support, promote, and enhance such transformation, as evidenced in eight programs for young adults,…

We present "doing language testing" sequences; L2 learners decide for themselves to test themselves or each other explicitly on new linguistic items, outside the official task cycle with no professional present, investing extra time and energy. We examine how and why pairs of learners do this, and its impact on their learning. They use…

This study investigates the motivations of both heritage and non-heritage students of Portuguese at two universities in Rhode Island where Portuguese-speaking migrant communities have settled and their language has strong visibility. Attention is drawn to motivation since it is known to be a significant factor in the development of linguistic…

This paper addresses the limited exploration of the impact of virtual and augmented reality on the learning process, particularly within the context of foreign language learning among young learners. Motivated by this research gap, the EULALIA, conducted from 2019 to 2023 (2019-1-IT02-KA203-063228), sought to evaluate the efficacy of integrating…

This research addresses the conceptual and methodological challenges of studying transformative learning within the context of international education. A comprehensive framework is employed to identify key dimensions of transformative learning, and a validated instrument (Beliefs, Events, and Values Inventory) is used to quantitatively assess…

Due to its accessibility and popularity, anime has been explored as a motivation for learning Japanese and as a pedagogical tool linking Japanese-as-a-foreign-language (JFL) literacy practices inside and outside of the classroom. However, JFL learners' actual practices in anime-mediated self-directed learning have not been fully investigated.…