Abstract:
Evolving technology inevitably leads to an evolving foreign language classroom. Importantquestions need to be answered about the merits and demerits of incorporating various technological tools into the curriculum, and the use of virtual worlds, such as Second Life, is one such new approach to teaching a second language. This paper is a reflection following a semester of implementing the program Second Life into the Spanish curriculum of college-level students to observe the pros and cons of using this technology in language learning. Students formed small groups to perform various tasks within the virtual world of Second Life, "traveling" to Spanish-speaking countries and other locations to learn more about the world around them. Each group communicated entirely in Spanish during these tasks, with an effort to improve communication skills in the target language without the usual pressures of performing in real life. While students will always benefit from being exposed to culture in more creative and realistic ways, the technology that makes this possible may also cause significant problems for many students. These advantages and disadvantages, specifically related to the use of Second Life, are evaluated and discussed in this reflective paper.
