Keith Topping

Tpall Technology for Peer Assisted Language Learning Keith Topping

This book investigates the value of peer assisted learning through interactive technologies for foreign language learners. It is a compilation of six research projects. Two of these took place in Higher Education with students learning English as a Second Language. The value of one-way peer tutoring through online instant communication was assessed. Findings showed that there was a great deal of social and academic benefit for international students. The remaining four projects linked Scottish schools with schools in Spain, France and Germany. The potential of reciprocal peer tutoring through online discussion boards was evaluated. In pairs, foreign language learners were expected to write messages on topics aligned to their respective curricula. They were also to provide feedback to each other. In performance in the foreign language statistically significant gains resulted. However, content analysis showed this did not develop in a linear fashion. Participants were overwhelmingly positive about their experiences. This method of computerised peer learning between countries has great potential, for both foreign language learning and cultural exchange.