Computer learning networks and student empowerment

A major development in computer-assisted language learning has been the expanded use of the computer as a medium of communication. This, in turn, allows for computer learning networks of students within a class or across classrooms who share information and documents, hold electronic discussions, do collaborative writing and organize cross-cultural exchanges. Proponents of computer learning networks claim that they are anexcellent tool for fostering new social relations in the classroom, resulting in greater student empowerment. This paper examines whether computer networks are indeed an effective tool for empowering second-language learners, focusing on three aspects: autonomy, equality and learning skills. It concludes that computer learning networks do have the potential to empower students when they are used appropriately, and provides some pedagogical suggestions for the effective use of computer networking in the second- and foreign-language classroom.