Today the internet, consisting of millions of computers, has an important role and great potential in educational life. It is also used specifically and widely in second language learning all over the world. Though the internet use in second and foreign language learning has brought certain advantages, it carries some disadvantages. However, before discussing its advantages and disadvantages, it is a must to mention some potential problems.
Positive
The internet use increases language use and acquisition of second language. For example, it was found that interaction in language helps learners to gain input in language learning process (Kitao, 1998). Specifically, it increases synchronous and a synchronous communication of ESL learners and them to use language in real communication. In other words, the internet motivates learners to use English in their daily lives and provides functional communicative experiences Communication with native speakers allows learners to practice specific skills such as negotiating, persuading, clarifying meaning, requesting information, and engaging in true-life, authentic discussion. Additionally, the internet gives the opportunity to construct knowledge together by expressing themselves in print and then assessing, evaluating and comparing,. In sum, it is useful medium for communication with native speakers in real situations, improving writing skills, teaching of culture (and learning about the target culture . It is also useful to retrieve, access and use information in the context of second language learning. Also , the internet changes the interaction between learners and teachers Finally, the studies indicate that the internet has positive effects on motivation, provides means for creative works and gives opportunities for collaboration and socialization in learning process ..
Disadvantages
There are some disadvantages of the internet use in second language learning. First, communication with native speakers affects reading skills defectively . This is also valid for listening, speaking and writing skills. Though it is a fact that the internet improves communicational and language skills, the significant point is that teachers and learners are not sometimes aware of why, how, whom and where they teach and learn. Second, though a mass of materials in the internet can be found, integration of the materials into second language curriculum is a potential difficulty. Unfortunately, internet use in language learning and teaching may be the waste of time if it does not depend on a language curriculum.
Conclusion
With its advantages and disadvantages, the internet has significant effects on communicating, teaching and learning. Thus, both teachers and learners should have the chance of internet accessibility, experience and familiarity with its functions in educational life. For this purpose, before using the internet in second language learning and teaching activities, teachers and learners should be instructed. This is a must to use it in language classrooms efficiently. On the other hand, it should be known that the internet is not sufficient itself to teach and learn a second language. In other words, it cannot include all teaching and learning activities and be replaced the real teaching and learning environment, such as language classroom and real-life communication.
Reference :
1. Effective use of the Internet in Second Language Education: Benefits, Challenges and Guidelines for Teachers.
2. Interaction and on-line synchronous communication in English language learning, CALL-EJ, http://www.lerc.ritsumei.ac.jp/callej/3-1/kkitao.html
Internet technologies for authentic language learning experiences
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