The Journal of Second Language Writing solicits submissions on the theme of Second Language Writing in the Age of Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC). As emerging Web 2.0 technologies have revolutionized the ways in which we communicate and construct knowledge, this issue of JSLW will highlight what it means to be literate in the 21st century, how new technologies transform the teaching and learning of L2 writing, and how these new technologies are incorporated into L2 writing. This special issue aims to explore: a) the transformational roles these new tools may have on L2 writing processes, texts, or notions of authorship; and b) the affordances these tools provide for L2 writing development. Contributions may explore learners’ use of asynchronous and synchronous CMC tools, as well as other forms of writing such as blogs and fanfiction and the impact these new modes of writing have on opportunities for language and writing development. We envisage that this issue will shed new light on L2 writing research and pedagogy in the digital age.
We seek contributions that address one or both of the above-mentioned aims. Specifically, we look for reports of empirical studies on second/foreign language writing in the CMC context. Topics may include but are not limited to:
- Approaches to Researching L2 writing in CMC Environments
- Computer-Mediated Writing: Impact on Process and Product
- Digital/Multimodal Writing Pedagogy
- Academic Literacy/New Literacy in the Web 2.0 Environment
We also welcome conceptual articles that discuss multiple research approaches to investigations of online L2 writing, and examine relevant theoretical frameworks and constructs that guide empirical research and research-informed pedagogy. Contributions from all regions of the world addressing relevant topics in different educational settings (e.g., K-12, ESL, and foreign language settings) are encouraged, particularly submissions on non-English L2 writing.
Please send a 600-word abstract that describes empirically- or conceptually-based unpublished work. For all submissions, send copies of the abstract without the author/s’ names. On a separate sheet, include each author’s name, affiliation, contact information, and 50-word biographical statement. If abstracts are accepted, we will invite authors to submit full-length articles for possible inclusion in this issue.
Expected timeline:
- Abstracts should be submitted by Jan 1, 2016 via email to the guest editors.
- Authors invited to submit papers will be notified by Feb 1, 2016.
- Full manuscripts should be submitted by May 1, 2016.
Please send abstracts and inquiries to the guest editors, Mimi Li at mli@georgiasouthern.edu or Neomy Storch at neomys@unimelb.edu.au. For complete guidelines for manuscript preparation, please consult “Guide for Authors” available on the JSLW website at http://www.journals.elsevier.com/journal-of-second-language-writing/.