Using social networking sites for language learning to develop intercultural competence in language education programs

ABSTRACT

This article examines the ways a social networking site for language learning (SNSLL) enhances or hinders intercultural communicative competence (ICC). The study identifies the components of intercultural competence that emerge from students’ interactions and reflections about the SNSLL Livemocha. The research was conducted with second-year students of an English class in a Colombian university. Data were collected through screen recordings, students’ logs, surveys, and a focus group. Findings indicate that, of the five dimensions of ICC, the components of Attitudes, Knowledge, Skills of Interpreting and Relating, and Skills of Discovery and Interaction featured strongly on students’ exchanges and reflections. SNSLLs hold potential to enhance intercultural skills; however, pedagogical adjustment and refocusing of some of their activities are required to expand opportunities for intercultural engagement.

KEYWORDS:

• Intercultural communication
• intercultural communicative competence
• social networking sites for language learning
• Livemocha
• computer-mediated communication

Notes on contributors

José Aldemar Álvarez Valencia is a professor at the School of Language Sciences at Universidad del Valle, Colombia. He coordinates the Emphasis in ELT Education in the Interinstitutional Doctoral Program at the same university. He has published in the areas of discourse analysis, teacher education, intercultural communication, and multimodality.

Alejandro Fernández Benavides is an assistant professor at Universidad Santiago de Cali, Colombia and an adjunct professor at Universidad del Valle. He has conducted research in the areas of interculturality, critical pedagogy, and syllabus design.

Notes

1. This study is part of a broader research project titled “Las Redes Sociales para el Aprendizaje de Lenguas (RESAL): Un Estudio en la Licenciatura de Lenguas y Culturas Extranjeras de la Universidad del Valle” (Social Networking Sites for Language Learning (SNSLL): A study in the BA in Foreign Languages and Cultures at Universidad del Valle) (project code 4347).

2. Samples taken from the focus group have been translated into English. Excerpts produced in English have not been modified, except for cases where a square bracket is used around words to add context. We use students’ initials to protect their identity.

3. Buga, Cali, and Medellín are Colombian cities.