Next Steps Plan
Foreign Language Learning: Small World, Broad Horizons
Research Interest
Overview
Big Idea #1: I'm On CALL
Big Idea #2: Communication and Community
Big Idea #3: Implementation
Guiding Thoughts, Ideas and Questions
Where to next?
With research, comes data collection. Some of the purposes for collecting data include, obtaining information, making decisions about important issues and to share information with colleagues or others. Shank (2014) believes that qualitative researchers see the world rich with meaning, they focus on understanding, and also look at difference types of change and different kinds of people, culture, things and actions (pgs. 19-21).
My research topic delves into the meaningfulness, understanding and difference kinds of impacts and effects that computer-assisted language learning contributes to the motivation and development of foreign language skills compared to traditional learning environments. Some of the qualitative data collection approaches that I propose implementing include direct one-on-one interaction with individuals or interaction within a group setting. Other methods will also include, but are not limited to, student and focus group observations, and individual interviews. I will also need to investigate further to get a richer view on previous studies on similar topics.
The Plan
With a stack of ideas on my back, with grace and precision I will lay one idea board in front of the other until I have reached the horizon. This metaphor (and picture) is perfect for how I see the past 350 days: one board, one day at a time. The horizon is near.
Computers and Technology have changed foreign language learning. I find it quite exciting to work with students to discover new ideas and forums in which they can learn, research and present their ideas. As much as technology is favored by many, there are still those who enjoy coloring their posterboards with bright markers to display their artistic talents. It is important to remember to allow them that form of expression.
References:
Altuna, M. (January 2015). The integration of technology into foreign language teaching. International Journal on New Trends in Education and Their Implications. 6(1). Retrieved from http://www.jstor.org/discover/10.2307/480283uid=2129&uid=2&uid=70&uid=4&sid=21106020194661
Brandl, K. (September 2002). Integrating internet-based reading materials into the foreign
language curriculum: From teacher-to-student-centered approaches. Language Learning & Technology. 6(3) 87-107. Retrieved from http://www.llt.msu.edu/vol6num3/pdf/vol6num3.pdf#page=95
Dona, E., Stover, S., Broughton, N. (July 2014). Modern languages and distance education:
Thirteen days in the cloud. Turkish Online Journal of Distance Education. 15(3) 13 155-170.
Shank, G., Brown, L., & Pringle, J. (2014). Understanding education research: A guide to critical reading. Boulder, CO: Paradigm Publishers.