Discourse Functions And Vocabulary Use In English Language Learners` Synchronous Computer-Mediated Communication

Authors : Ghaleb RABABAH

Pages : 99-117

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Publication Date : 2013-06-01

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :This study explores the discourse generated by English as a foreign language insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(EFL); learners using synchronous computer-mediated communication insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(CMC); as an approach to help English language learners to create social interaction in the classroom. It investigates the impact of synchronous CMC mode on the quantity of total words, lexical range and discourse functions of EFL learners’ writing from different genders insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(males vs. females);. Thirty-two intermediate EFL students discussed four topics in four CMC sessions. The findings reveal that gender plays a major role in shaping the quantity of discourse insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(total words);, lexical range insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(variety);, and linguistic output insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(i.e., the quantity and type of discourse functions); the participants’ generated using synchronous CMC mode. Generally, the female participants produced more words, complex lexical range and output discourse functions than males in CMC setting. In addition, the study showed that the participants produced discourse functions shaped by the particularities of local social arrangements. Users found opportunities in the virtual world of CMC which enable them to blind their identities, so people in subordinate conditions such as females in certain conservative societies, EFL learners, and shy students may find CMC useful for fostering their communicative competence.
Keywords : Computer Mediated Communication CMC, Discourse Functions, Lexical Range, Synchronous CMC, Gender