‘A Good Neighbour is Better than a Far Friend’ – Using computer-based learning environments (CBLEs) for learning neighbour languages

Günther-van der Meij, M, Urbanek, L, De Vogelaer, G, Jager, J, Duarte, J

Abstract

This paper discusses the Digi+ project, a bilingual Dutch-German CBLE, aimed at primary school pupils between eight and ten years old in the German-Dutch border region. It describes the set-up of Digi+ as well as results from the first pilot study that was held with one Dutch and two German schools comprising six teachers and 107 pupils. Data were collected on language background of the participants, their attitudes towards the neighbour language and culture and teachers’ experiences and teachers’ impressions of pupils’ experiences of working with Digi+. Results show that pupils are enthusiastic about working with the bilingual CBLE and there is potential in the learning environment for enhancing neighbour language and culture education.