Innovation in Language Learning

The main purpose of this study is to address the current learning needs, interests, and learning styles of the 21st century foreign language adolescent learner through the integration of digital communications.   Despite the foreign language (FL) community’s historical interest in employing technology to support language learning, few research studies have targeted the use of digital platforms that address the communicative and literacy needs and challenges of today’s diverse young learners in a FL environment. This study investigates and examines strategies for teaching and improving the communicative skills in the target language in a natural and flowing way. Additionally, venues to increase the effectiveness, proficiency, and performance in the content area are analyzed in detail.  As such, the study examines the effectiveness of some of the most frequent technologies used by young people in today’s digital age and how the implementation of such digital tools may enhance their literacy practices in the second language through the integration of the three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational).  Lastly, the study also analyzes the advantages and disadvantages for both teachers and students in implementing and employing digital communications.

Keywords: digital communications, language learning, foreign language classroom, digital literacies.

References:

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