Innovation in Language Learning

Nowadays there is a large number of available digital technologies to enhance foreign language learning such as learning applications [4], digital games [8], social media [7], AR [6] etc. and improve one or more of the four different basic skills (writing, speaking, reading and listening) for example through dialogic interactive media for speaking [5], chatbots for writing skills [1] etc. Digital technologies are transforming the way a foreign language is taught, learnt, and used such as creating contextualised learning scenarios [2] not only into the classroom (formal learning) but also during informal learning. In the first part of the present study five of the most common errors Greek Cypriot dialect speakers make during Italian language learning are presented and the types of the errors are analysed. In the second part of the study ways of improving Italian language learning through the integration of specific digital tools into teaching and learning are presented, aiming for the improvement of those specific difficulties. The digital tools are introduced through the Blended learning method. The undergraduate students who participated in the study (n=60), used the digital tools that are implemented into their curriculum of study during their learning, to improve their performance regarding those common difficulties. Furthermore, participants completed different questionnaires regarding their experiences with the tools. In the present study limitations and advantages of the digital tools are presented and the role of the teacher is also discussed. Because language teachers today are faced with so many fascinating options for using technology to enhance language learning that it can be overwhelming and challenging to identify the best tool that fits a particular goal [3]. The present study focuses on a specific target audience with a specific goal in order to enhance the experience of language learning. Finally, the present study is unique as it states the challenges and propose solutions through technology.

Keywords Italian language; digital tools; blended learning; technology;

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