Discussion boards as a culturally responsive tool in the ESL classroom

Abstract The inclusion of new digital literacies in the ESL classroom has been growing lately. This study presents information about how beneficial it can be for emergent bilinguals to use an online platform, Blackboard, to engage in thoughtful and meaningful discussion boards. Findings from this qualitative case study show that such online discussion boards help students to not only develop their linguistic abilities, but also to feel valued as they can share their knowledges and experiences as part of the discussions. Discussions in the present study rely on students’ funds of knowledges to promote a more inclusive and multicultural classroom.