Web 2.0 services and organization of interactive distance learning of a foreign language

Abstract

The issue of distance learning is very important at present. Herewith, learning of a foreign language is practically oriented, which causes difficulties upon conversion to distance learning. The main tool of implementation of distance learning is the use of information and communication technologies (ICT). The use of these technologies for educational targets is not a novelty, though, under conditions of distance learning, the ICT is nearly the only tool to organize learning. This article is devoted to the analysis of potentials of WEB 2.0 services for learning of a foreign language. The study is aimed at revealing possibilities to apply WEB 2.0 services for efficient implementation of interactive forms of learning of a foreign language in distance mode. The formulated target was achieved using the following methods: continuous sampling method for collection of actual material; comparative method to compare functionality of WEB 2.0 services and demands for implementation of interactive forms of learning. Generalization and systematization were selected to reveal the types of WEB 2.0 services. During the studies the types of WEB 2.0 services have been revealed characterized by the highest potential to implement interactive forms of learning. Among these types, the highest potential is demonstrated by the services for meetings and universal services; field-specific services allow to create jointly various types of content for further use during online meetings and for interaction on universal services. The novelty of the obtained results has ben stipulated by specificity of analysis criterion: the educational potential of WEB 2.0 services was studied not in whole but exactly for implementation of interactive forms of learning of a foreign language in distance mode.