Electronic Discussion Forums and English Learners
Abstract
This article describes the benefits of using asynchronous computer- mediated communication (CMC), specifically discussion forums, with second language learners. Students have been shown to contribute more, and at a higher level of linguistic complexity, to CMC discussions than in face-to-face situations. Further, participation is more equitable among students, and less instructor-controlled, in this type of discourse than in a normal classroom setting. The asynchronous nature of the discussion forum allows users to read the postings without the pressure to respond immediately and provides a transcript of the conversation for conference or evaluation purposes. The article also discusses the author’s use of a CMC discussion forum in her high school English as a Second Language class. Student postings and reflections are included. A list of free educational Internet forums is also provided.