TOPIC 5

In this modern era, I believed everyone would spend most of the times with gadgets along with the speeding network connection. As for today, we will talk about Computer mediated communication and ESL.

Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) is any form of communication or interaction between two or more people via different computers through network connection. It is basically any communication mediated through a computer.

CMC in education (late 1980s) has become widespread with the use of Email, Forums and Internet Chat Rooms allowed direct communications in which it implemented for long-distance teaching and learning. Recently, e-tutoring increased in popularity through forums and video conferencing. This synchronous communications allows teacher and learner to interact without being in the same location. For example, E-lectures also becoming popular and some university offers short courses over the internet (well, this is a bit futuristic during that time).

Furthermore, CMS also has collaborative learning such as Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning. Computers can help enhance peer interactions and group work. Not only discussions, but also collaborative production of works and problem solving. This activities are carried by Google Doc, Google Drive, Blogs and Messenger.

CMC offers learners easy access and opportunity to communicate with other learners as well as native speakers through authentic communication. Context and material of communication is authentic rather than simulated.

     ADVANTAGES

•         No distance barrier

•         Mitigates time as a barrier

•         Makes collaborations much easier

•         Social influences and detriments are reduced or eliminated

DISADVANTAGES

•         Inhibitions related to the use of technology

•         Problems with access to technology

•         Lack of socio-emotional and nonverbal cues

•         Lack of real human contact