Reading Prompt #4

Communication and collaboration is important in every classroom especially in a language learning classroom. As described in Chapter 4 by Egbert, communication conveys knowledge between learners one way or through an exchange. Egbert also describes collaboration as the process in which learners interact socially with one another to create and share understanding. In a learning language classroom, the communication and collaboration in the target language provides the learners with not only language practice but with also a view at modeling within their peers. The students are also able to interact with one another sharing ideas and meanings, which helps to clarify ideas and concepts for better understanding. In addition, communication and collaboration is important in the language learners classroom because the learner is able to take risks using using the target language creatively.

Computers can be used to facilitate communication and collaboration. An example of this is when students interact with other students who speak the target language through e-mails. Another example, could be where students are placed in groups and asked to research a specific topic using the computer. Students would then discuss the material obtained and decided as a group whether to include the information in the research report.

An example that I particularly liked in the chapter was the "Neighborhood Trip". In this example the teacher divded the class in groups and they were each given a task to complete before leaving for the field trip. One group was tasked with creating questions to answer about the field trip they are about to take. The second group was tasked with locating community members to talk to. And the final group was tasked with creating a map using simple mapmaking software on the computer. When all the tasks are completed the groups shares the questions, map and community member with the whole class. After the field trip the class answers the questions and adds any additional facts, information and features to the map. I can see using this activity in my 4th grade bilingual class. As a matter a fact, we are planning a field trip to visit the state capital in Austin. I think this could be a good idea to assign to my class.