The document discusses using synchronous computer-mediated communication (CMC) for language learning activities. It describes how CMC can encourage more equal participation than in-person group work and allows learners time to prepare. A variety of tools are presented for synchronous CMC, including chat programs, video conferencing, and learning management system classrooms. Examples of activities that can be done through synchronous CMC include discussions, project collaboration, study groups, and holding virtual classes. The document demonstrates how to use Blackboard Collaborate and suggests trying other tools like Google Hangouts, Skype, TokBox, and IRC in small groups.

1. Synchronous CMC
CALL Feb 25 2013
Follow along: goo.gl/oHPIH

2. Why CMC?
 Not an either/or choice between
speaking in person and CMC.
 What can CMC do…
◦ In class?
◦ Small group work outside of class?

3. Learner Participation
 More equal participation than in-class
group work and less use of L1
(Warschauer, 1996).
 Learners have time to prepare
 Encourages output
 Can be used in conjunction with
tasks/projects.

4. Tools
 Chat programs (Instant Messenger,
Google Talk, Microsoft Lync,
Facebook Chat)
 Internet Relay Chat (chat rooms, very
text-based)
 Video/audio conferencing (e.g.,
Skype, TokBox)
 LMS classrooms (e.g., Blackboard
Collaborate)

5. Activities
 Discussion topics (high interest topics)
 Work on a project/task (through
discussion)
 Study groups
 Collaborate on a document (in
application)
 Hold class
 Jigsaw activity (Pre-determined
groups, students go from group to
group)

6. Let’s try it out
 Blackboard Collaborate (Guide here):
 Login to Collaborate session via BBLearn (568 ->
General Information)
 You may need to install Collaborate/update Java.
Asks for Admin authorization, just cancel (should
still work)
 Or join via mobile app (Blackboard Collaborate
Mobile in iTunes or Google Play).
 You will need the Blackboard Mobile app AND
the Blackboard Collaborate app to use it.

7. Small group work
 With a partner…choose one of the
following (preferably that you haven’t
used before)
 Test out the application; figure out how
to use it.
 Brainstorm ideas for using it in your
own class.
 Share your findings in the appropriate
Collaborate group.

8. Synchronous CMC
Google Hangout Up to 10 members
http://www.google.com/+/learnmore/ Video chat
hangouts/ Low barrier to entry
Skype Ubiquitous (students probably
http://www.skype.com/en/ familiar)
Free, intuitive
Video or audio only (no text)
TokBox (Conference option) Video conferencing (or text)
http://www.tokbox.com/ Video messaging
http://youtu.be/QlQA9eAxqdM Shared whiteboard, other tools
Free basic or Premium versions
Browser-based
Some tech savvy required to set up
IRC (Internet Relay Chat) Browser-based, text only
http://irchelp.org/irchelp/irctutorial.ht Free
ml Flexible and easily accessible
Very old school (text commands)