Analyzing EFL University Learners’ Positionings and Participation Structures in a Collaborative Learning Environment

Abstract

A preliminary analysis about the way a group of university students behaved in group activities that promoted interaction and negotiationrevealed that some students were positioned negatively while learning English. This qualitative study analyzed the learners’ positionings asgroup members and the participation structures under a specific pedagogical intervention focused on peer collaboration. The data collectioninstruments were audio recordings, field notes and individual conferences. The conclusions show that the rights and responsibilities duringgroup work were given according to the way the learners mutually acknowledged their skills. The school and social skills recognized by thepeers were related to checking each others’ work, building consensus, and guiding the development of the task.