Vawter, Laura and Martens, Alke (2020) Exploring Collaboration and Exploratory Talk in Microworlds. In: European Conference on Game-based Learning ECGBL 2020, Online. Academic Conferences International Limited. ISBN: 978-1-912764-71-6. ISSN: 2049-0992.
Full text not available from this repository.Abstract
The behaviourist model of drill and practice is most commonly prevalent in Computer Assisted Language Learning Software (CALL). However, the use of CALL within a constructivist model remains untapped. Recent research has shown that micro-worlds, whose attributes fall within the constructivist framework, can be utilized in CALL software. Though the effects of micro-worlds on language acquisition is a controversial discussion, there remains prospect in its use. At the heart of the usage of microworlds and the constructivist framework is the promotion of critical thinking through exploration and collaboration with the goal of language acquisition. To explore these concepts, we created a dialogue-based micro-word using Minecraft in combination with an 8th grade level English as aforeign language (EFL) curriculum. We implemented the game in an 8th grade EFL classroom of native German speakers. This paper briefly explores the design and implementation of the Minecraft game and focuses primarily on the language used during game play. We used the categorization of disputational, exploratory and cumulative talk in order to explore the benefits of constructivist CALL software and its promotion of critical thinking, exploration and collaboration in language learning. In our discourse analysis we found that for most of the experiment the students relied on collaboration and spoke a majority of the time about the game in English. Though their talk involved strategizing game play, a majority of their talk was focused on task completion throughout the game. We additionally identified more disputational talk than exploratory and cumulative. Our research will help in the implementation of software in language learning 72 classrooms in general as well as add to the debate of how to promote exploratory talk among students and in turn utilize critical thinking in language learning.
| Item Type: | Conference or Workshop Item (UNSPECIFIED) |
|---|---|
| Uncontrolled Keywords: | Minecraft, microworlds, CALL, disputation talk, cumulative talk, exploratory talk, constructivist, critical thinking |
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