Construction of of an Internet English Learning Community Based on Mutual Learning by Using SNS and Evaluation of Participants' Online Output

2016 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 26350353
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Research Field: Educational technology
• Research Institution: Gunma National College of Technology
• Principal Investigator: Iino Kazuhiko 群馬工業高等専門学校, 一般教科(人文科学), 教授 (80159574)
• Project Period (FY): 2014-04-01 – 2017-03-31
• Keywords: SNS / 英語コミュニティ / TED / Moodle

Outline of Final Research Achievements

In this research project, firstly, we constructed an “English Learning Community” on the Internet based on participants’ mutual learning by using SNS, which is now one of the major communication tools among young people. Secondly, we analyzed the English used by participants in the learning community and their eagerness to participate and discuss in the community. The analysis shows limited proficiency level students try to express themselves by using already-known English expressions with little consciousness of other participants. On the other hand, intermediate students try to understand other participants’ opinions well and then try to express their own opinions in English. With regards to the participants’ eagerness to discuss in the community, their English level doesn’t have a strong influence, but their interest in the discussion topics is a crucial factor for participation.

Free Research Field

英語教育