Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item:
http://hdl.handle.net/10609/78786
Title: | Social Networking in Second Language Learning |
Author: | Malerba Candilio, Maria Luisa ![]() |
Director: | Appel, Marie Christine ![]() |
Others: | Universitat Oberta de Catalunya. Internet Interdisciplinary Institute (IN3) |
Keywords: | language learning social network sites informal learning lifelong learning |
Issue Date: | 17-Dec-2015 |
Publisher: | Universitat Oberta de Catalunya. Internet Interdisciplinary Institute (IN3) |
Abstract: | This thesis deals with informal second language learning in online communities such as Livemocha and Busuu. The thesis' objectives are: (1) analyse the potential effectiveness of these communities for long-term learning outcomes; (2) examine learners' construction of opportunities for L2 use in these environments; (3) explore affordances and constraints of online communities. To this end, a longitudinal multiple ethnographic case study approach was used under the theoretical framework of Socio-Cultural Theory and Activity Theory (AT). The research concludes with a critical reflection on the role of learner autonomy as a prerequisite for the creation of effective learning experiences in these environments, as this study clearly demonstrates. Moreover, the study translates its findings into a set of pedagogical recommendations for platform developers, learners and teachers to maximize the advantages of L2 learning in online communities as well as establish possible applications in formal learning settings. |
Language: | English |
URI: | http://hdl.handle.net/10609/78786 |
Appears in Collections: | Doctoral Thesis |


Files in This Item:
File | Description | Size | Format | |
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Thesis.pdf | Malerba_Candilio_dissertation | 4.93 MB | Adobe PDF | View/Open |
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