Integrating content-based language learning and intercultural learning online: An international eGrops collaboration
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Date
2009
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Abstract
Learning language through content in the tertiary context presents a challenge in that
language teachers, particularly in EAP/ESP contexts, are not necessarily experts in
their students’ speciality subject areas, while subject experts might lack language
teaching methodology. Furthermore, intercultural awareness, a key qualification in
today’s global work environment, tends to take a back seat in a content-based
approach. This paper reports on a didactic concept which integrates subject-based
language learning with intercultural experience through online collaboration in an
international eGroups set-up. The creation of a collaborative learning space aimed to
bring together learners from different cultural contexts (New Zealand and Germany)
and with different target languages (German and English) towards shared learning
outcomes. Data from student interactions will help illustrate to what extent the
eGroups model promoted interactive, communicative and intercultural competence
through content-related bilingual collaboration.
Description
Keywords
Online collaboration, English language, German language, CALL, EAP/ESP, Intercultural learning, e-groups
Citation
Walker, U. & vom Brocke, C (2009) Integrating content-based language learning and intercultural learning online: An international eGrops collaboration. A. Brown (Ed.)(2009) Proceedings of CLESOL 2008