ERIC Number: EJ1164956
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2018
Pages: 26
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0958-8221
EISSN: N/A
Digital Affordances on WeChat: Learning Chinese as a Second Language
Computer Assisted Language Learning, v31 n1-2 p27-52 2018
Different from the traditional term language input, affordance, an ecological term, has been deployed to analyze the perceived opportunities for second language (L2) learning an environment provides to L2 learners. L2 learning occurs only when the semiotic resources in the environment resonate with the learner's capacities such as their abilities, aptitudes, and attitudes. Adopting affordance as a theoretical and analytic construct, this study investigates using qualitative research methods what language development affordances WeChat, one of the most popular Social Networking Systems in Chinese-speaking communities, provided to two university-level Chinese language learners while they were studying abroad in an intensive language program in Shanghai. Four affordances were identified. The results also show that each affordance was manifested differently with each language learner due to unique communication norms on WeChat, each language learner's Chinese language proficiency, and their personal preference in WeChat communication. Pedagogical implications are also provided to guide educators and L2 users as to how to take advantage of WeChat for language learning.
Descriptors: Chinese, Second Language Learning, Educational Environment, Linguistic Input, Qualitative Research, Social Networks, Social Media, Study Abroad, Cross Cultural Training, Grounded Theory, Usability, Access to Information, Native Speakers, Interpersonal Communication, Multiple Literacies, Educational Resources, Professional Identity, College Second Language Programs, Foreign Countries, Surveys, Participant Observation, Semi Structured Interviews
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research; Tests/Questionnaires
Education Level: Higher Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: United States; China
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A