ROLES OF FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNERS AND TEACHERS IN CONTEXT OF DIGITALIZATION AND ONLINE INTERCULTURAL EXCHANGE

Abstract

Even though there have been discrepancies when it comes to the importance of intercultural competence development in foreign language learning, with the emergence of new generations of young technocrats growing up in the world of rapid globalization, it is becoming clear that intercultural awareness in this process cannot be disregarded, and the language itself out of its context cannot be fully comprehended. The aim of this piece of writing is to point to the fact that digital technologies in language classroom are therefore of paramount importance, since they enable us to overcome physical distances among cultures and stimulate the development of skills needed for every global citizen. The intention goes beyond this in a way that it shows how the enabled online intercultural communication affects the roles of language learners and teachers and move students to central position in foreign language learning. Furthermore, it underlines the need for teacher support in the development of all the necessary competences which would finally lead to promoting and fostering learner autonomy. It also observes that OIE cannot alone promote language and skill competence development, and calls for blended approach which comprises both online and offline sessions that allow for reflection crucial for foreign language acquisition.