Lang-8

Authors

  • Young Sang Cho Dankook University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.11139/cj.30.2.293-299

Keywords:

Social networking sites, L2 learning

Abstract

Lang-8 is a social networking website that helps individual learners to form their own learning community online. On this website, typical learning practices like writing in L2 and giving and receiving linguistic feedback closely pertain to friend making and maintaining activities, so learners can learn and practice new languages in communicative, interactive, meaningful, and authentic ways. In general, feedback is given by native speakers, so learners can learn more natural-sounding language. Lang-8 also makes it possible for learners to meet many types of people from all around the world (not to mention native speakers), giving them the chance to improve their cultural competence.

Author Biography

  • Young Sang Cho, Dankook University
    I received a Ph.D. degree in Foreign and Second Language Education at the University at Buffalo, State University of New York. My research interests include computer assisted language learning (CALL), L2 acquisition, L2 teaching methodology, and feedback and engagement. He is currently completing an internship at the Center for Literacy and Reading Instruction (CLaRi) at the University at Buffalo.

References

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Lave, J., & Wenger, E. (1991). Situated learning: Legitimate peripheral participation. Cambridge, England: Cambridge University Press.

Nystrand, M., & Gamoran, A. (1991). Instructional discourse, student engagement, and literature achievement. Research in the Teaching of English, 25(3), 261-290.

Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological process. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press.

Wenger, E., McDermott, R., & Snyder, W. (2002). Cultivating communities of practice: A guide to managing knowledge. Boston, MA: Harvard Business School Press.

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Published

2013-05-29

Issue

Section

Software Reviews

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