This book contributes to overcoming the deficit in research on emotions in foreign language learning in the domain of computer-assisted language learning (CALL) in both traditional and virtual settings. The authors divide emotions into positive (i.e., enjoyment and curiosity) and negative (i.e., boredom and language anxiety) and explore their role in L2 teaching and learning in CALL environments from theoretical, empirical and pedagogical perspectives. The book begins with a theoretical overview of selected issues concerning positive and negative emotions and surveys the studies that have dealt with this issue in L2 learning in conventional settings and CALL. The empirical part of the book is devoted to a research project which explores the experience of positive and negative emotions in learning English in the virtual world Second Life, the relationships of the emotions in question and factors influencing them. The book concludes by recommending a selection of practices which can help maximize the positive emotions and minimize the negative emotions in foreign language learning in CALL environments. This is an important and illuminating read for students and scholars of applied linguistics, second language education and educational technology who are interested in CALL and in incorporating VW/VR-based language learning programs into their studies and teaching.

This book syntheses cutting-edge research on the role of individual differences (IDs) in the field of SLA and in computer assisted language learning. It also outlines the theoretical and methodological issues at the heart of this research, presents empirical findings and charts future directions of this research. Pawlak and Kruk provide an overview of the latest theoretical developments in research on IDs in SLA as well as methodological considerations that are crucial when researching individual variation, with special emphasis on data-collection procedures that are most prominent in CALL. The book goes on to summarize and explore a body of empirical evidence concerning the role of individual difference factors in CALL, singling out existing gaps, methodological problems, and areas in need of further investigation. Finally, the authors provide a guide on how empirical investigations of individual difference factors in CALL can be improved by incorporating latest developments from the broader field of SLA. This book will be of great interest to postgraduates and scholars in the domain of applied linguistics and second language education who are interested in CALL, as well as those studying and undertaking research in second language learning and teaching.

This edited volume provides a comprehensive overview of contemporary research into the application of digital games in second and foreign language teaching and learning. As the use of digital games in foreign language education continues to expand, there is a need for publications that provide a window into recent innovations in this increasingly influential area of language education. This volume is wide ranging in scope incorporating both theory and practice and includes contributions from authorities in the field. Areas covered include research reviews and a range of case studies conducted in a variety of international contexts. This volume represents an essential guide to developments in this field and will have wide appeal to students, language educators, game and instructional designers.

In the context of continuing technological innovation, the field of technology-mediated foreign language learning is expanding rapidly. Advances in digital technologies are providing researchers with opportunities to investigate a range of exciting new areas of research. This edited volume is designed to showcase a selection of recent cutting-edge innovations. This publication incorporates chapters dealing with the use virtual reality, social networking, speech technologies and social semiotics. Also included are chapters that focus on the relevant review work that is vital for progress in the field. This publication provides an indispensable guide to a wide range of practitioners, including language educators, researchers, graduate students, learning scientists and instructional designers.

The delivery of quality education to students relies heavily on the actions of an institution’s administrative staff. Effective teaching strategies allow for the continued progress of modern educational initiatives. Student Engagement and Participation: Concepts, Methodologies, Tools, and Applications provides comprehensive research perspectives on the multi-faceted issues of student engagement and involvement within the education sector. Including innovative studies on learning environments, self-regulation, and classroom management, this multi-volume book is an ideal source for educators, professionals, school administrators, researchers, and practitioners in the field of education.

With higher education turning towards data analytics as the next big advance in technology, it is important to look at how information is gathered and visualized for accurate comprehension, analysis, and decision-making. Packaging Digital Information for Enhanced Learning and Analysis: Data Visualization, Spatialization, and Multidimensionality brings together effective practices for the end-to-end capture and web based presentation of information for comprehension, analysis, and decision-making. This publication is beneficial for educators, trainers, instructional designers, web designers, and graduate students interested in improving analytical tools.