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Article published In: Study Abroad Research in Second Language Acquisition and International Education
Vol. 4:2 (2019) ► pp.224–251

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The digital dilemma

L1 and L2 technology use, language learning, and motivation among US university students studying abroad

 | Arcadia University
 | Baylor University
Published online: 24 July 2019
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/sar.18003.sei
Abstract
The study abroad (SA) experience now involves increased learner access via technology to the home (in the L1) and to the host culture (in the L2). L1 technology use could detract from host culture integration and language learning by allowing SA participants to remain immersed in the L1, while L2 technology use could aid in host culture integration by connecting participants to L2 speakers. Given this, it is urgent to determine the nature of the impact of L1 and L2 technology use abroad on motivation, language gains, and host culture integration. In the present study, we analyzed daily technology logs, learner motivation and L2 gains, and guided reflections on host culture engagement and L2 learning goals by eleven US university students studying abroad in Argentina. Motivation and L2 abilities increased significantly, and were positively correlated. Also, L1 and L2 digital contact showed important qualitative relationships with motivation and host culture integration.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Literature review
    • 2.1Motivation and L2 language gains
    • 2.2L2 language gains and host culture integration
    • 2.3Technology use in a SA context
  • 3.The present study
    • 3.1Participants
    • 3.2Procedure
    • 3.3Materials
      • 3.3.1Language background questionnaire (LBQ)
      • 3.3.2Linguistic gains: Quantitative measure
      • 3.3.3Motivation: Quantitative and qualitative measures
      • 3.3.4Technology use log: Quantitative measure
      • 3.3.5Guided reflection: Qualitative measure
      • 3.3.6Post-sojourn survey: Qualitative measure
  • 4.Results
    • 4.1Quantitative results
      • 4.1.1L2 gains and motivation
      • 4.1.2Technology use
    • 4.2Qualitative findings
      • 4.2.1Goals
      • 4.2.2Motivation
      • 4.2.3L2 gains
      • 4.2.4Post-sojourn survey responses
  • 5.Discussion and conclusion
  • References
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