Abstract

Although recent years have recognized the importance of intercultural learning in the domain of foreign language education, current pedagogical approaches still focus on culture from a factual perspective (Kramsch, 2013). Scholars have discussed the need of developing students’ critical and reflective skills, especially in today’s complex reality where individuals from diverse cultural backgrounds intersect (McConachy, 2018). Technology tools hold great potential for engaging language learners in cultural interpretations and reflections since they enable connections with people and practices from all around the world. Nonetheless, the use of technology does not guarantee intercultural competency, rather educators need to be intentional when using new digital tools in the instructional context. This paper first summarizes how Computer-Assisted Language Learning tools have been used broadly in foreign language teaching and learning. Following, three main approaches for teaching culture through CALL are described. Finally, ethnographic techniques are proposed for supporting students’ shift from ethnocentric toward ethnorelative perspectives and engage in practices of interpretation and critical reflection.

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