(IADIS - International Association for Development of the Information Society, 2014) Castrillo de Larreta-Azelain, María Dolores; Martín Monje, Elena María; Bárcena Madera, María Elena
This paper analyzes the adequacy of mobile chatting via Whatsapp for the enhancement of a type of spontaneous and colloquial written interaction which has a strong connection with oral discourse. This is part of a research project undertaken with Spanish students of German as a foreign language with a beginner’s or quasi-beginner’s level. The paper presents the context and parameters of this learning experience and the methodology followed. Then, an analysis of the results is undertaken in terms of student response, attitude and participation, and also in terms of the meaning negotiation strategies and language used. Finally, conclusions are drawn regarding the adequacy of the Whatsapp technology for the practice and improvement of interactive skills for foreign language students at the initial learning levels.
