A Case Study in the Administration and Operation of an L2 Conversation-Partner Program

Keywords

ESL, foreign language learning, conversation partners, Study Buddy, program evaluation, peer tutoring

Abstract

This article is the first part of a two-part series on L2 conversation-partner programs. It describes a particular, university-based conversation-partner (Study Buddy) program that provides opportunities for English language learners to work together in dyads with learners of other languages in a way that allows both members of the pair to improve their skills in the language they are learning. More particularly, it details the aims, procedures, and results of a needs analysis and evaluation of the Study Buddy Program. It concludes with three recommendations:(1) revise the pairing process, (2) provide written guidelines for participants, and(3) plan activities beyond the initial orientation. While the details of the program are particular to it, many of the lessons learned from this case study may be generalizable to other L2 conversation-partner programs in other settings.

Original Publication Citation

James, J., Henrichsen, L., Tanner, M., and McMurry, B. (In Press). A case study in the administration and operation of an L2 conversation-partner program. Accepted for publication in the TESOL Reporter.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2019

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/8694

Publisher

Brigham Young University Hawaii

Language

English

College

Humanities

Department

Linguistics

University Standing at Time of Publication

Assistant Professor

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