#3: Synchronous and Asynchronous CMC Tools

1-1. A Synchronous tool-Skype (www.skype.com)
    
  One of the special features of Skype is that a user can make video calls for free. This not only permits the caller to talk to someone, but he or she also gets the opportunity to see the person actually.Therefore, Skype users can talk and see each other regardless of where they are. In addition, one can easily transfer files in any format from his/her account to another person’s computer.


1-2. An asynchronous tool- Voicethread (http://voicethread.com/)

   Voicethread is a web service that allows its users to upload PowerPoint slides, videos, photos, etc. and add voice narration for a multimedia presentation as well. However, the most attractive thing about Voicethread is that viewers can add their own comments to the presentation via voice or text. With VoiceThread, students can post questions or thoughts about a lecture directly to the lecture itself whenever and wherever. Voicethread also enables students to be more actively involved in discussion created among them, not driven by their teacher. 


2. I believe, whatever tools you use, both synchronous and asynchronous tool will contribute to the more frequent communication and interaction among the language students. Learners can share their ideas online, learn from each other, and make their understanding deeper. To make more specific distinction  between the two, synchronous tools require its users to log on to the service at the same time. Thus, it will be easier for learners to discuss their problems or projects, reaching solutions readily. Also, if a student has a question to ask, a language teacher can help him or her immediately as they talk in real time. Meanwhile, with asynchronous tool, students gain more time to think about a task given before they show their reaction to it. For this reason, students will be able to answer in a more thoughtful way.  


3. In order to utilize the tools for students' language development, a teacher can give students a group written project to enhance interaction among them. To solve the problem together, they will feel the need to talk to each other. Also, to give comments on the students' progress, the teacher can ask the students to log on to Skype for real-time feedback. Or, using Voicethread, the teacher can make a video file and have students watch it and leave a comment on it.