The use of language exchange app Tandem and the development of Intercultural communicative competence in secondary level EFL classrooms

Abstract

In recent years, the use of educational apps within the classroom has raised significantly. There is almost an infinite number of language learning apps in the digital market. However, one app that could successfully promote intercultural communicative competence in and outside the classroom is Tandem, a language exchange mobile app that allows users from all over the world to practice languages as a community. The following research paper approaches the use of Tandem in and outside the classroom to foster interculturalism. Tandem is a mobile app that permits individuals to help each other in practicing or learning any language they prefer by interaction and mutual benefit. While one person practices a particular language, the other person gives feedback and also practices another target language. Thus, this characteristic facilitates language acquisition and fosters the awareness of cultural diversity within the classroom. The objective of this proposal is to identify and study the relationship between the use of the language exchange mobile app Tandem and the development of intercultural communicative competence in EFL students. This intervention proposal suggests complementing the EFL secondary level classroom with conversation exchange sessions between students and native speakers by giving specific topics for students to discuss with their Tandem partner. Additionally, students will develop a variety of activities based on intercultural learning approaches from conversation to discussion and reflection. All the activities are blended to increase both linguistic and intercultural skills.