An Orchestration Perspective on Computer-Supported Collaborative Language Learning: A literature Review

The term orchestration has gained much attention in the field of Computer-Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) in the last decade and many strategies and tools have been proposed to help teachers orchestrate collaborative learning activities in real time. Despite the great interest in the area only few studies have explored the specific needs of orchestrating Computer-Supported Collaborative Language Learning (CSCLL) activities and the unique attributes deriving from the Language Learning (LL) discipline have not been fully investigated yet. Studies in different subjects have highlighted the critical role of orchestration and how it affects students’ attitudes and learning outcome; however, the explicit study of language learning environments is limited. Following a systematic review method, 30 studies are reviewed and indicate how orchestration has been conducted in LL environments and what are the implications regarding students’ motivation, engagement, self-regulation and learning outcome. The findings indicate that research in this area is still in the initial stages and although the first results appear promising, there are several open issues to be addressed. Finally, recommendations for future research are provided and the need for more systematic analyses of the special needs of CSCLL environments is emphasized.

Keywords: Collaborative Language Learning; Computer-Assisted Language Learning; Orchestration