Language Learner Behaviour in a Virtual Environment

The research shows that people tend to behave differently when doing online communication compared to face-to-face communication. When communicating online, people shows lower level of inhibition and social anxiety. Thus, the virtual learning environment helps develop a more relaxed and stress free atmosphere than a classroom. The passive students feel less threatened when chatting in the second language and they are more willing to take the initiative and do not care much about making mistakes.

I think this is true for my case. My students like sending me email. The more able students still pay attention to the grammar and spelling, while the less able students try to express their ideas in “improper” English. Very often I have to guess what they intend to say, but I really admire their efforts. I think communicating online can develop students’ confidence in using English, but the ultimate goal should be helping students to develop the ability and skills of communicating in proper English.