A Predictive Study of Wiki Interaction: Can Attitude toward Wiki Predict Wiki Interaction in High-Context Cultures Groups?

Abstract

Wiki technology is more than a technical mechanism to support language learning. It should be seen as an attitude toward social learning technology with consideration for social and cultural factors of the learners. It is not appropriate to assume all students would perceive the social functions of Wikis in the same way and be equally eager to engage in the technology. Learners from different cultural groups may perceive and interact differently in Wiki-based learning environments because the influence of their cultural perceptions regulates their interaction. This study purposes to examine the predictive relationship between attitude toward Wiki and Wiki interaction in a single culture background classroom. It is concluded that there is a medium to strong, positive relationship between attitudes of learners toward language learning in Wiki learning environments and Wiki interaction in a Chinese ESL classroom. Strategies to support and improve attitudes of learners toward language learning in Wiki learning environments are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]