Theoretical Perspectives on Choice in Multimodal Text Production and Consequences for EAL Task Design

Abstract

This chapter discusses the nature of multimodal text construction in the teaching and learning of EAL, presenting theoretical perspectives on text construction as a process of choice making. The extensive use of new technologies has made this process more complex, with multiple options readily available in terms of modes, designs, and composition of multimodal ensembles. To make appropriate choices, students need to develop an awareness of the complex relationship between the context, situation, and communicative purpose on the one hand and the manifestation of these factors in the actual text construction on the other. Examples of task prompts are discussed in terms of their potential to promote such awareness by de facto allowing students to practise making appropriate choices in their text production.