The Use of Skype to Expose Students to A Cooperative Learning Environment Through Oral Interaction Tasks

Abstract

This action research study aimed to reveal the practices of a group of students when exposed to a cooperative environment and its effect on the students’ oral interaction through Skype. Four task-based workshops were implemented involving peer work and tasks centered on topics to enhance critical thinking. Data was gathered through video recordings, reflective diaries, a semi-structured interview and feedback checklists. The findings revealed that the participants experienced certain aspects of cooperative learning such as teamwork and goal-sharing. In addition, the tasks contributed to enhancing some characteristics of peer team work, as well as language development. While working with Skype, technological problems emerged which were solved synchronously. Backgrounds, beliefs, and problem-solving also appeared.