Enhancing Multimodal Interaction and Communicative Competence through Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) in Synchronous Computer-Mediated Communication (SCMC)

Abstract

The number of publications on live online teaching and distance learning has significantly increased over the past two years since the outbreak and worldwide spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, but more research is needed on effective methodologies and their impact on the learning process. This research aimed to analyze student interaction and multimodal communication through Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) in a Synchronous Computer-Mediated Communication (SCMC) environment. For this purpose, 90 teacher candidates enrolled in the subject Applied Linguistics at a university were randomly assigned in different teams to create collaboratively digital infographics based on different language teaching methods. Then, all the teams explained their projects online and the classmates completed two multimedia activities based on each method. Finally, the participants discussed the self-perceived benefits (relevance, enjoyment, interest) and limitations (connectivity, distraction) of SCMC in language learning. Quantitative and qualitative data were gathered through pre- and post-tests, class observation and online discussion. The statistical data and research findings revealed a positive attitude towards the integration of TBLT in an SCMC environment and a high level of satisfaction with multimodal communication (written, verbal, visual) and student interaction. However, the language teacher candidates complained about the low quality of the digital materials, the use of technology just for substitution, and the lack of peer-to-peer interaction in their live online classes during the pandemic.

Students’ Perceived Learning Acquisition of the Enhanced Course for Digital Communication

“…These include learning strategies visualization, and digital literacy support (Chiu, 2021;Wijaya et al, 2021;Yusoff et al, 2021). Also, aside from the pedagogical impact, the perceived ease of use of digital technologies was found to positively influence students' behavior in digital learning, which shaped them to be digitally resilient (Belda-Medina, 2021;Kintu et al, 2017;Lang and Sorgo, 2023;Li, 2023).…”

The Impact of Covid-19 on the Design of Online Language Teaching Through Zoom

“…During 2020-2021, Zoom [5;7] -a tool that can be used to create a synchronous computer-mediated communication (SCMC) environment-has been the subject of research. Studies have demonstrated that "interaction and multimedia communication can be effectively enhanced in language learning through SCMC" [5]. However, despite the geographical expansion of research, in the most recent survey containing publication statistics on the topic of emergency remote teaching (ERT), it is unclear why there is no publication data covering the situation in Ukraine [21].…”

Need Analysis in Developing TBLT-Based Digital Storybook for 7th Grade Students

“…The users of based teaching technology are expected to be able to use a material that supports the learning process in accordance with the obstacles encountered during this one-site learning. With this, the use of technology will have a very important influence, such as in producing a product, for example a digital story book that is applied with TBLT and also media that integrates technology (Belda-Medina, 2021;Huang & Gandhioke, 2021;Kazemi & Zarei, 2015). Making digital storybook media applied in the English learning process, especially improving student literacy.…”