While educators and educational psychologists debate the influence of media on learning, there can be little doubt that media is now an integral constituent of any educational context. In particular, computer and internet media, with their immense processing power and multimedia capabilities, can have significant bearing on learning processes and outcomes in todays learning environment. Such media, which are increasingly designed to be highly interactive and adaptable, can enable reflective, productive and communicative activities and have much potential for foreign language learning. The book contains 16 papers which look at different forms of media and explore how these affect or can be used effectively in foreign language education. The first of three parts focuses on important theoretical and pedagogical issues in selecting and using media. In the second part, insightful empirical research findings are presented on the contributions of different forms of media in language teaching and learning, including their effect on learners learning motivation. The third and concluding part of the book provides in-depth accounts of how media can be harnessed to drive innovative curricular practice as well as students evaluations of these curricular projects. Studies in Second and Foreign Language Education presents research on critical theoretical issues and empirical research which shape second and foreign language education. It provides a platform for the discussion of innovative and progressive curricular and teaching practice. The series includes work on: Theories and applications of innovative approaches to language acquisition/education Instructional methodologies Curriculum development Teacher education Language planning and evaluation Autonomous learning contexts Teaching/learning of less commonly taught languages This series will be of interest to second and foreign language researchers and teachers, curriculum and materials developers, and language policy planners. Studies in Second and Foreign Language Education presents research on critical theoretical issues and empirical research which shape second and foreign language education. It provides a platform for the discussion of innovative and progressive curricular and teaching practice. The series includes work on: Theories and applications of innovative approaches to language acquisition/education Instructional methodologies Curriculum development Teacher education Language planning and evaluation Autonomous learning contexts Teaching/learning of less commonly taught languages SSFLE will be of interest to second and foreign language researchers and teachers, curriculum and materials developers, and language policy planners.
