The use of information communication technologies (ICTs) in the teaching of German as a foreign language : an action research study

Abstract

Information Communication Technologies (ICTs) have given foreign language educators the opportunity to expand the classroom context and provide access to current, up-to-date materials from the country or countries of the target language, offering learners and teachers a plethora of materials in different modes, bringing the foreign culture and language to life and making it accessible anytime and from anywhere. It was with this notion in mind that the present action research study was conducted. It aimed to expose students to a simple virtual learning space, in order to create awareness and foster positive attitudes towards ICTs and networked collaborative possibilities in foreign language learning. A website for Maltese students learning German was provided and was implemented in four schools, where five different sessions were held in each school. Data was collected by means of pre-, mid-and post-project questionnaires. A separate questionnaire investigated the participants' views of the interface design and content of the website. Teachers were assigned an openended questionnaire at the end of the project. The study investigated students' as well as teachers' attitudes and response towards the use of ICTs in German as a foreign language before and after the online intervention. The results demonstrated that students were unaware of the potential of ICTs and were highly motivated when Deutschzone was integrated as part of their learning. This online kit was being used continuously inside and outside the classroom and it combined learning with pleasure. Students became managers of their own learning and were using the site extensively to enhance their learning of the language and also to collaborate with their peers using; the Forum.