Promoting L2 Reading in Less Commonly Taught Languages with Hypertexts

Authors

Theresa Catalano, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

1-2011

Comments

Published in NECTFL Review 67 (January 2011), pp. 31-49. Copyright 2011 Northeast Conference on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, Inc. http://www2.dickinson.edu/prorg/nectfl/review.html

Abstract

This study explores the use of hypermedia reading texts for the language classroom and more particularly for less commonly taught languages (LCTLs). In the article, I review relevant research on the use of hypertexts in the foreign language classroom and how they can be used to facilitate the teaching of reading. A qualitative study of the use of these hypertexts with Italian university students was conducted, along with an explanation of what hypertexts are available for LCTL teachers currently, and how teachers can create their own hypertexts and implement them in the classroom. The study suggests that although hypertexts have not been proven to improve reading comprehension, they can still be a useful tool in promoting L2 reading.