Research Methods for Investigating Technology for Language and Culture Learning

Abstract

To appear in Chapelle, C., & Sauro, S. (Eds.). 2016. The handbook of technology in second language teaching and learning. John Wiley & Sons. RESEARCH METHODS FOR INVESTIGATING TECHNOLOGY FOR LANGUAGE AND CULTURE LEARNING Dorothy M. Chun Abstract Based on selected research studies that are among the most highly-cited or considered seminal or influential, this chapter provides an overview of the various qualitative, quantitative, and mixed- methods approaches that have been used to date in CALL research. CALL is used to refer to “Computer-Assisted Languaculture Learning,” which encompasses not just second language learning but also learning about the cultures associated with these languages. Areas of investigation have included learning of grammar, vocabulary, reading/writing, listening/speaking, pragmatics and intercultural competence, as well as overall communicative and intercultural competence. Technologies investigated in these areas range from tutorial lessons to collaborative Internet-based projects. Potential future methodologies and directions for future research are discussed for Computer-Assisted Languaculture Learning. Keywords research methods, quantitative, qualitative, mixed methods, language learning, culture learning, languaculture