Uses a quantitative approach to explore the scale of L2 English use online

This book explores the relationship between online second language (L2) communicative activities and formal language learning. It provides empirical evidence of the scale of L2 English use online, investigating the forms most commonly used, the activities likely to cause discomfort and the challenges experienced by users, and takes a critical approach to the nature of language online beyond the paradigms of ‘written’ versus ‘spoken’. The author explores the possibilities for language teaching practices that engage with and integrate learners’ L2 English online use, not only to support it but to use it as input for classroom learning and to enhance and exploit its incidental learning outcomes. This book will be of interest to postgraduate students and researchers interested in computer-mediated communication, online discourse and Activity Theory, while language teachers will find the practical ideas for lesson content invaluable as they strive to create a successful language learning community.

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Research-based, yet practitioner-friendly, Andrew Moffat’s stimulating book takes the educator on a journey into L2 English-users’ informal practices online and examines how these affect their language learning and proficiency. Addressing many of the sticky issues related to intentionality and awareness in informal learning, his extensive survey data and corpus analysis give unprecedented empirical solidity to study in this field.

"Grounded in an extensive body of data, this book comprehensively explores the computer-mediated communications-based activities of English learners, including the difficulties they face and the ways in which language teaching practices can support such online activities. This book offers valuable insights for both researchers and practitioners engaging in L2 English online activities." - Miho Inaba, Cardiff University, UK

"In this important and timely book, Moffat shines a spotlight on how students of English worldwide are using the language online. This is a phenomenon that English teachers cannot ignore, and Moffat offers a practical model for integrating this online activity with their classroom work, to enhance motivation and maximise learning." - Martin Lamb, University of Leeds, UK

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...this is an exceptionally well-written, clearly structured book, with invaluable findings and detailed explanations and justification of research methods, something that postgraduate researchers may particularly appreciate.