Internet-Based Technology Use in Second Language Learning: A Systematic Review

3. Internet-Based Technologies Use In Second Language Learning

The extensive Internet-based technologies have been used in the following four areas: (1) telecollaboration, (2) 3D virtual worlds, (3) mobile-assisted language learning, and (4) authentic online videos. Telecollaboration, such as Facebook, wikis, blogs, and podcasts have been widely used in second language learning, and there is extensive research on several kinds of online collaborative learning (e.g. Guth & Helm, 2012; Lee, 2009; Ware & O'Dowd, 2008). On the other hand, authentic online videos are a more traditional teaching and learning method that has been used even before the Internet technology emerged. Authentic online videos are usually used as a part of other online learning tools (e.g. Second Life and podcasts) but there is limited research on it. Existing research on each of these four areas are discussed in more details below, with starting with telecollaboration, the most widely researched type of technology used by second language learners and educators; and ending with authentic online videos, the least researched area of technology with this population.