Computer-Mediated Communication in Language Learning

Computer-mediated Communication (CMC): incorporation of online communication technologies into a learning setting (Egbert & Hanson-Smith, p. 21) 

Synchronous CMC: possible simultaneous interaction, through tools such as instant messaging, text and voice chat rooms, and videoconferencing (Egbert & Hanson-Smith, p. 21) 

Asynchronous CMC: delayed communication through tools such as email, discussion boards, blogs, podcasting and webcasting (Egbert & Hanson-Smith, p. 21) 

Both synchronous and asynchronous CMC are invaluable in the classroom, as they offer many language learning opportunities that would not be accessible otherwise. Synchronous CMC offers students the ability to interact with other students in real-time, from any location. An advantage of this interaction type is the multitude of available communication opportunities. Teachers can establish connections with fellow teachers in schools across town, or even across the world, and can schedule student chat opportunities with the students from other schools via chat, Skype, etc. This type of partnership lends authenticity to the communication activities, and students would be excited to interact in a new modality and even more, with students from different locations and cultures. A disadvantage of this type of communication could be the potential negative side effects that could stem from having such an instant, real-time interaction. Students engaging in chat could be offended due to a lack of facial cues and a more-relaxed diction, which could result in a student accidentally saying something they didn't intend to be offensive. Otherwise, synchronous CMC can be a valuable tool for encouraging real-time student interaction. 

While synchronous interaction tends to rely more on informal writing exchanges, asynchronous communication modalities give learners time to review and edit their work (Egbert & Hanson-Smith, p. 21). An advantage of asynchronous CMC is that students have time to think about what they are saying. This provides language learners with an adequate amount of time needed to develop their ideas. This is supports Condition 5 for Optimal Language Learning (Egbert & Hanson-Smith, p. 21). If students have an adequate amount of time to work, then they won't be stressed, and will be able to engage in a better higher-level learning than under other circumstances. Unfortunately, one of the disadvantages of asynchronous CMC is that the students may become frustrated with waiting for other students to respond because the communication is not instantaneous. Ultimately, both types of interaction have their strengths and weaknesses, but should be incorporated into the classroom to enhance language learning and students' interaction.