A complex approach to technology-mediated task-based learning

Abstract

The focus of this study is the process of teaching/learning English as a second language in CALL, emphasizing oral interaction in an environment mediated by a synchronous communication tool using Task-Based Learning (TBL) under the perspective of the Complexity Theory. It aims to analyze and define the task cycle as a Complex Adaptive System. The current study adopts a netnographic methodology that deals with theory and practice adapting the ethnographic method to include the influence of the internet in technology-mediated environments. We built the dataset using video recordings of five classes carried out in an environment mediated by Zoom. The participants were students from the Biotechnology program at the Federal University of Pelotas selected due to their need to have online meetings with researchers from international universities. Based on a complex and netnographic perspective for data observation, it was possible to demonstrate that the task cycle, in this new learning environment, is sensitive to initial conditions, unpredictable, open, dynamic, adaptive, complex, chaotic, nonlinear, self-organizing, and sensitive to feedback. This study attempts to contribute to developing a new area of investigation in CALL due to the need to understand better the pedagogical implications of the interactions in this unique learning context in a complex and non-reductionist manner using a robust theory as the Complexity Theory.