THE INTEGRATION OF GRAPHIC ORGANIZERS INTO WRITING WORKSHOPS: AN APPLICATION IN SMART PHONES
Hull University (UNITED KINGDOM)
About this paper:
Appears in:
EDULEARN13 Proceedings
Publication year: 2013
Pages: 2772-2779
ISBN: 978-84-616-3822-2
ISSN: 2340-1117
Conference name: 5th International Conference on Education and New Learning Technologies
Dates: 1-3 July, 2013
Location: Barcelona, Spain
Abstract:
Since second language learners in Saudi Arabia encounter many mistakes regarding the level of coherence in their essay writing, this research aimed to enhance the coherence of students’ essay/paragraph writing. It aimed to raise the motivation level towards the writing lesson. The study will answer the following questions:
• What factors affect Saudi second language learners; motivation, comprehension on their writing?
• What is the attitude of Saudi second language learners towards writing?
• In what ways and to what extent do graphic-organizers enhance Saudi second language students' writing?
• What are student reactions to the use of graphic-organizers in writing lesson?
To answer these questions, a mixed methods approach was applied in the study. Three kinds of methods were used as following:
1st period: focus group + Pre-test
2nd period: applying Graphic-organizers as experiment
3rd period: focus group + Post-test.
Three groups participated in the study with a total of 84 participants.The multiple baseline design illustrated clearly the differences in students’ scores.
In general, the findings were promising. Applying graphic-organizers into students writing enhanced students’ coherence and motivated them in their lessons. Furthermore, the integration of graphic-organizers into writing is being developed as an application to be used on smart phones.Keywords:
writing, graphic-organizers, second language, technology.