Collaborative kinesthetic EFL learning with collaborative total physical response

Abstract

This study aims to integrate kinesthetic technology and collaborative learning into total physical response (TPR) and to investigate the effect of collaborative total physical response (CTPR) on English language acquisition by high school students. To accomplish this, we utilized Microsoft Kinects to develop Collaborative Kinesthetic English Learning (CKEL) system designed to accommodate students in pairs during collaborative English learning activities. Thus, we observed significantly improved learning outcomes in the experimental group relative to the control groups in both total score and vocabulary part of the post-test. However, tests carried out for learning different kinds of vocabulary based on CTPR were also analyzed, and the results showed no significant difference between verbs, nouns or adjectives. This experiment revealed that this system would possibly be helpful for English learning regardless of the kind of vocabulary targeted. Therefore, we concluded that CTPR is not only more helpful for English learning than the traditional individual TPR but also worth being employed and requires further exploration in facilitating English learning.

Keywords:

• Total physical response
• English learning
• collaborative learning
• human-computer interaction

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes on contributors

Fan Wang is a professor of School of Education Intelligent Technology Jiang Su Normal University, Xu Zhou, Jiangsu, China. The major research interests of Dr. Wang include new social learning, Computer Supported Collaborative Learning.

Wu-Yuin Hwang is currently a distinguished professor of the Graduate Institute of Network Learning Technology, National Central University, Taiwan. The major research interests of Dr. Hwang include contextual learning, human-computer interaction for collaboration, multimedia tools/systems design and high level of cognition development and construction.

Yung-Hui Li is a professor of Graduate school of Network Learning Technology, National Central University, Taiwan, China.

Pin-Tse Chen is a Master Degree Candidate of Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering, National Central University, Taiwan, China.