This article compares the use of discourse markers (DMs) in Italian as a second language (L2) produced by Belgian-Dutch learners, with the DMs produced by Italian native (L1) speakers. The quantitative analysis of the data shows that L1 speakers produce more DMs than L2 speakers, whereas the comparison between the levels of proficiency in L2…

The conceptualization of multiliteracies initiated by the New London Group (NLG, 1996) emphasized the situated nature of language use as a socially complex network of multimodal engagement. Inspired by this view of language and literacy, computer-assisted language learning and second language acquisition scholars have advocated for a broader scope…

To inform pedagogical decisions about using technology, it is important to understand from the ground up how technology is utilised during language learning activities. This paper takes an ethnomethodological conversation analytic approach to examine a learner's participation in epistemic management actions and its consequences for second language…

This article, by Tomoyuki Kawashima, presents two listening activities, using nonnative speakers as models, that "broaden … students' perspectives on English and enhance their self-perception as future English users." The activities help students understand that everyone, even native speakers, has an accent, and that sounding…

Virtual reality (VR) has attracted increasing interest for its potential to enhance second language acquisition through immersive and interactive experiences. However, effectively integrating VR with established language teaching pedagogy remains a critical challenge. This study addresses that gap by embedding the principles of task-based language…

This study examined whether students' perceived social interactions within different learning activities predicted their willingness to communicate (WTC) in second language (L2) classrooms. The sample was 932 undergraduate students from 8 universities learning English as a foreign language. Data of student-perceived social interactions in…

Among various factors contributing to autonomous language learners' success, the beneficial role of out-of-classroom activities (OCAs) has been largely neglected. The present case study sought to explore successful language learners' OCAs, their perceptions of the efficiency of these activities, and their purposes for engaging in them. To this…

Involving plurilingual immigrant parents in their children's schooling is an understudied area. However, research shows the importance of parental involvement for all. Much literature critiques the existing understanding of the term parental involvement which is based on the practices of white middle-class parents and fails to recognize the common…

Pedagogical scaffolding offers temporary support as English Learners engage with challenging math. We identify three dimensions--grouping, structure, and language--along which teachers can vary the intensity of scaffolding with the same rigorous prompt to challenge and support their English Learners. [This paper was published in "Mathematics…

Both Byram and Fleming (1998) in the United Kingdom and Jandt (2016) in the United States have written extensively about the necessary connection between teaching and learning English and developing intercultural communicative competence (ICC). There are various pragmatic reasons to start from the students' own culture(s). Ali and Walker (2014)…

Achieving higher levels of proficiency in a foreign language depends on more than an extensive knowledge of grammar and vocabulary. Evidence is mounting that true proficiency depends on cultural awareness about how and when language is used. This suggests that teachers in foreign language classrooms must incorporate explicit cultural lessons into…

A compulsory foreign language in Finland starts now in Grade 1 instead of Grade 3. The change has forced teachers to adopt new teaching methods. As young learners are not yet literate, teaching should focus on oral skills and awareness of diversity. Video data from 19 early foreign language lessons of five English, German, or French teachers in…

This article discusses the adaptations and possible transformations in ELT during and post COVID-19 times. The traditional focus for ELT is often a narrow perspective on teaching methodology, epitomized by the "3 Ps" in ELT- Present, Practice, Produce. We argue for a realignment of focus to "People, Places, and Purposes" in ELT…

Pedagogical Grammar has been notorious for a number of controversial issues, among them how necessary and effective it is in assisting foreign language learners at the moment of language production. If language is understood as a formal system that is activated when put to use and grammar as a meaning-negotiating resource, there are aspects of…

Previous studies have indicated that social media has been used by students to develop speaking skills. Nevertheless, precisely how guided social media (GSM) (usage determined by the instructor) and unguided social media (USM) (freely chosen by students) activities in speaking courses affect their speaking skills and willingness to communicate…