TASK 2: ARTICLE REVIEW

TOPIC: The Use of Technology in Second or Foreign Language Teaching and Learning

COMPUTER-MEDIATED COMMUNICATION IN FOREIGN
LANGUAGE LEARNING:
A CASE OF THE STUDENTS OF JAPANESE

Authors: Yuko Ramzan and Ritsuko Saito

Modern Languages Program, University of Wollongong, Australia.
email: Yuko_Ramzan@uow.edu.au
email: Ritsuko_Saito@uow.edu.au

http://www.ascilite.org.au/conferences/wollongong98/asc98-pdf/ramzansaito-0066.pdf

This research article highlights the advantages and importance of learning and teaching a foreign language. As in this case, learning Japanese language. It focuses on the use of y-talk in the process. Y-talk is integrative software of multi-user chat service. Nowadays, it is popular as Yahoo Messenger or MSN live chat window which is available on the net. This research involving two different a Japanese university and a Japanese language class at the University of Wollongong. This research will also looks into the effectiveness of having y-talk into language learning in a real-time situation. I other words, live learning. This is happening in a two direct way between language learners and the native speakers. This research was participated by 17 Japanese language major students in a third year level compulsory subject at the University of Wollongong at ranged of 20 to 31. Their first language is English and they are aware of y-talk solely for this subject. These students were assessed to have y-talk pal with the native speakers as their subject requirements once a week. Since this is a collaboration between two universities, they were provided with their partner for each other, which known as temporary Buddy for the subject. The Japanese language learners were required to exchange information with each other and submit their report to their subject coordinator. After that their report in the subject logbook from the students would be collected before they would be called for interview to increase validity, to collect background information from the students, and to clarify what the students wrote in their logbooks. The responses of this interview would be recorded as the research’s result. The result then was divided into three categories of the effectiveness of y-talk. From 17 of participants, fifteen of them had obtained information on Japan and the culture. Besides that, y-talk is seen as a tool for self esteem where by y-talk, they can build their confidence in learning the second language. This happen when they felt that they are in a non-threatening environment and no bias in physical appearances along the way of learning. The researchers then concluded the research by saying that the y-talk has increase language learners motivation and not only did the students have fun, they expressed that they learnt a lot about the language in context while ‘talking’ to their Buddy via a computer.

It is such a shame for of not ever trying to have such method when I was taking my third language subject before, Japanese or Nihon-go. This is an interesting method in developing my third language eventhough I am not really in acquiring it seriously and just for the sake of my programme requirements. That is for my third language subject. So, how such method would help others, English language especially, to master the language? Schools could apply this for the students since everyone has internet connection at home. In order to master the language, learners need to start it at the early age. For example, I believe that school students nowadays have a Facebook account. So, they can manipulate the global network by having their pen-pal or a Buddy as to improve their English. I think it would be great!