Taiwanese student reaction to English language internet teleconferencing for enriching EFL classroom instruction

Abstract

This paper reports students\' reaction to a series of \"live\" Internet teleconferences in which an American interacted with Taiwanese English classes. The goal was to
strengthen the integrative motivation of students who rarely have the opportunity to
interact with L1 speakers. Using qualitative methodology, students were found to be
particularly interested in instructional teleconferencing, focused on authentic
pronunciation and usage, as well as improving understanding of American culture.
Perceptions of the distance-learning experience were often framed in terms of
nervousness or relaxation while speaking with an American through teleconferencing.
Students frequently alluded to the benefits of teleconferencing to allow preparation
in advance for the interaction. Details of the technology and curriculum design are
presented, with recommendations for practice for others wishing to use teleconferencing
to enrich classroom experience. Internet teleconferencing holds potential for significant
increases in student motivation, confidence and ability, wherever a language is taught
as a foreign language.

Journal for Language Teaching vol Vol. 41 (2) 2007: pp. 124-138