Abstract

This volume provides foreign language educators and classroom researchers with an introduction to online intercultural exchange, the activity of engaging foreign language learners in collaborative project work with partners from other cultures through the use of online communication tools such as email, discussion boards and videoconferencing. The authors use their extensive experience in both the practice and research of online exchange to present a clear overview of the pedagogical theory behind online exchange and its contribution to different aspects of foreign language learning, including communicative competence, intercultural awareness and learner autonomy. The chapters look at different ways of organising such projects, such as the Tandem and Cultura models, and also provide clear discussions on practical aspects of the area including task design, the choice of communication tools and the role of the teacher.

This state-of-the-art volume comprehensively covers the theory, research, and practice of online cultural exchanges. It is an important addition to the literature on technology use in the language classroom.

Online Intercultural Exchange brings together a wealth of inspirational case studies, hard-won wisdom and sound, practical advice for teachers embarking on the adventure of using communications technology to explore language and culture. As someone who has dipped his toe in virtual learning environments and had it painfully stubbed several times, I wish this book had been available to me some time ago.

Telecollaboration has enormous potential for foreign language education. This book shows how it can live up to its promise in mainstream teaching. Clearly a 'must read' for anybody interested in this exciting new field.

Robert O'Dowd is a teacher and teacher-trainer and has a Ph.D. on the development of intercultural competence through the use of networked technologies in the foreign language classroom. He teaches EFL and Foreign Language Methodology at the University of León in Spain, where he is also involved in various research projects related to online intercultural exchange. His other special interests include the role of the teacher in online education and the role of culture in foreign language education.

This edited collection is a rigorous exploration of one particular type of educational exchange, one which should help language teachers and technologists alike get the most out of language learners. Any teacher considering using "social software" to connect his or her class with others could find this book fascinating reading.