Network-based language teaching today: multimodality, multi-dimensionality and interaction

With the development of technology and the introduction of network-based language learning, the face of computer aided language learning (CALL) has changed enormously. Some researchers claim there has been a paradigm shift in how languages are taught and learned. Students are now in a position to communicate with each other and to work collaboratively using authentic materials in multimodal and multi-dimensional networks. These can combine writing as well as speech and graphics. This paper takes a closer look at Lyceum, a Web-based, real-time audio-graphic conferencing system, which has been introduced by the Open University for online tuition. Sociocultural and constructivist approaches are employed to examine the virtual learning environment. Through observation of online sessions and feedback from tutors and learners, the opportunities and challenges of the new media are documented and assessed.