Hostname: page-component-8448b6f56d-m8qmq Total loading time: 0 Render date: 2024-04-19T07:33:14.357Z Has data issue: false hasContentIssue false

Situated creation of multimedia activities for distance learners: motivational and cultural issues

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  28 November 2005

CHRISTINE DEVELOTTE
Affiliation:
Ecole Normale Supérieure Lettres et Sciences Humaines, Lyon, Francecdevelotte@ens-lsh.fr
FRANÇOIS MANGENOT
Affiliation:
UFR Sciences du langues, Université Stendhal Grenoble 3, 38040 Grenoble, Francefmangenot@infonie.fr
KATERINA ZOUROU
Affiliation:
UFR Sciences du langues, Université Stendhal Grenoble 3, 38040 Grenoble, Francekaterinazourou@yahoo.fr

Abstract

This paper discusses the design and implementation of a task-oriented collaborative learning (and training) experimental project that was carried out with future language teachers. More specifically, a class of sixteen French students enrolled in a Masters of Education course were asked to create multimedia resources for a group of Australian students with no prior knowledge of French. This paper deals only with issues concerning French students’ multimedia creations, not with the second phase of interactions with the Australian target group. The theoretical background is situated and collaborative learning and training: the French students worked in pairs, creating multimedia activities based on their culture for real students in a different location. They communicated with each other during weekly classes and via a groupware tool. A triangulated data method was used incorporating the students’ multimedia outcome, questionnaires and semi-directive interviews. The following issues are discussed: what is the effect of such situated learning settings on motivation, commitment and computer literacy? What image did the French students have of the Australian students and which cultural aspects did they try to convey?

Type
Research Article
Copyright
© 2005 Cambridge University Press

Access options

Get access to the full version of this content by using one of the access options below. (Log in options will check for institutional or personal access. Content may require purchase if you do not have access.)