Spanish classes online: the importance of feedback

For far too long, Distance Learning Spanish Classes have tended to use conventional-style assessment models. Yet the specific needs of distance learners can only be met by developing and using new models that place students at the heart of the process and recognize that their role is not passive, but active. Current theories of second language acquisition and language teaching are now claiming that feedback is one of the most important elements of the learning/teaching process and are pointing towards a more collaborative approach between student and teacher. The social interaction achieved through feedback acts as a catalyst for effective language learning. There are generally two types of feedback – response to specific linguistic faults and more general advice and commentaries. Specific correction focuses mainly on what the student has done wrong and requires short-term action whereas commentaries take a broader view of the student’s performance and are more long-term. They point to elements that the student might consider improving over time. Commentaries are also more carefully tailored to each individual student’s particular weak points and problem areas, placing the student at the centre of the language learning process. Therefore, teacher commentaries, tips and advice are elements that online Spanish language tutors and courses must take care to develop. Often, far too little importance is given to the general feedback on tests and other assignments in Spanish distance learning, but if Spanish Classes on the Web are to be successful, they must begin to place the relationship between the student and the learning context at the centre of the language learning process. Feedback must form the corner stone of every online Spanish program, for otherwise the student will become alienated from the teacher and the learning process, either underachieving or pulling out of the course altogether.