This research synthesis explores the role of synchronous computer-mediated communication (SCMC) for second language acquisition (SLA). Using Hymes' (1971) notion of communicative competence and Canale and Swain's (1980; Canale, 1983) subsequent framework for communicative language teaching, the synthesis examines the research trends, methods, and findings addressed by journal articles which have evaluated the role of SCMC for SLA over the past 20 years. (Contains 3 tables and 3 notes.)