Promoting Online Interactions of Foreign Language Learners in a Computer-Mediated Learning Environment

Abstract

Practical mastering of a foreign language by university students in the distance learning environment is associated with the search for ways and means of adequate teaching and learning interaction patterns. The present study concentrates on the problem of teaching foreign languages using information and communication technologies. The focus is made on the possibilities of using various e-learning resources and services to develop students’ communicative competence. Based on the survey conducted among teachers and students, the authors explore how to organize effective online interactions of foreign language learners and outline the following components of those interactions: lingvocognitive, information, communicative, perceptual, and intercultural ones. The potential of e-learning resources is evaluated to promote the cognitive and social involvement of foreign language learners in meaningful oral and written online interactions. The paper presents the extended and diversified range of distance learning tools that have proven effective for online classes.