Assessing online collaboration among language teachers: A cross-institutional case study
Nike Arnold
Portland State University
Lara Ducate
University of South Carolina
Lara Lomicka
University of South Carolina
Gillian Lord
University of Florida
Abstract
This paper focuses on computer-supported collaborative learning (CSCL) among foreign language (FL) graduate students from three universities, who worked together to create a wiki. In order to investigate the nature of CSCL among participants, this qualitative case study used the Curtis and Lawson framework (2001) to conduct a content analysis of learners’ collaborative behaviors. Transcript and survey analyses indicate that the success of collaborative interaction depends largely on the group members themselves. Differing levels of participation indicate that not everyone was equally involved with the wiki project, which ultimately affected the level of collaboration, the group dynamics, and the final product. In addition, the leader in each group influenced the degree of collaboration taking place in her group.
About the Author(s)...
Nike Arnold is an Associate Professor of Applied Linguistics at Portland State University in Portland, Oregon. Dr. Arnold’s research focuses on instructional technology, learner differences and teacher training. She may be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Lara Ducate is an Assistant Professor of German at the University of South Carolina, where she coordinates the 1st year language program. Dr. Ducate’s research interests include computer-mediated communication, teacher education and sociocultural theory. She may be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Lara Lomicka is an Associate Professor of French at the University of South Carolina. Her research interests include computer-mediated communication, second language acquisition and teacher training. Dr. Lomicka may be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Gillian Lord is an Assistant Professor of Spanish at the University of Florida. Dr. Lord’s research focuses on pronunciation, teacher training, and computer-assisted language learning. She may be contacted at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
