Learning virtually or virtually learning?

When one arrives in a new country, adapting to its language and culture can be a daunting process. Without a solid foundation in the native language, completing daily tasks can be daunting because being outside means overcoming linguistic and cultural obstacles on a regular basis, which can be frustrating. Consequently, some people may prefer being inside. With the access we have today through the television and internet, being inside seems an attractive alternative for newcomers. However, is relying on these virtual resources an effective way to learn a second language or is it virtually learning in other words "almost" learning?

In the first several weeks of my arrival in France, I have to admit, I watched television, probably a bit more than I should have. However, from an language learning perspective, I found it quite useful. Even though my proficiency in French is advanced, it had been quite awhile since I had last used French on a daily basis in a variety of situations. Watching television enabled me to listen for diverse intonation patterns and pronunciation of discrete sounds or specific words. Being able to observe not only how words were formed as television hosts or journalists articulated but also what sort of expressions and gestures accompanied the conversation. Because it was an asnychronous environment, I had time to reflect, repeat, and recall what was of interest to me. Of course, my vocabulary has been enriched in depth and breadth. The variety of programming ranges from more colloquial expressions to more academic terminology. Finally, the programming highlights what is valued in French culture-music and singing, cuisine and respect for those who nurture what we consume, word games, political discussions, and history/culture. In a short period of time, I have expanded my repertoire of French pop music and recipes to impress my in-laws. I have a list of new places I would like to visit in France for their historical significance or their cultural contributions. Most importantly, I have overcome my concern with using the correct gender of definite/indefinite articles because many native speakers don't know the answers to some of those questions, as I learned from watching word games! The internet has, of course, been particularly useful as well, especially as I prepared for my "test de positionnement" or language proficiency test with the OFII - French Office of Immigration and Integration. Being on the other side of the proficiency/placement testing desk can certainly be a motivating and enlightening experience. Several websites provided free online proficiency tests, and youtube always has interesting sites to access for pronunciation practice or to listen and re-listen to presentations with more academic content at a variety of proficiency levels.

It seems then that learning in virtual settings provides newcomers or language learners, in the short term, with a variety of opportunities for language development. Virtual settings provide a more individualized rhythm in the refuge of a comfortable, safe place to practice without the anxiety of the consequences of making mistakes. Yet, although learning virtually is beneficial, if one wants to fully integrate into a new community, sooner or later, the newcomer must venture outside these virtual spaces where they are virtually learning - or almost learning. An authentic situation where effective communication has consequences is a real learning experience. In that moment, confronted with necessity, the language learner takes a risk to go outside his or her comfort zone. This is not easy because the outcome is uncertain. It may not be the perfect conversation, but, from my experience in Paris and in Michigan, the multidimensional, multi-sensorial, interaction with the person in front of you will be more rewarding than any experience you can have by learning virtually. It is only by venturing outside that the language learner will be invited inside to fully participate in his or her new community.

Learning virtually or virtually learning?