Applying the total physical response (TPR) method to online one-to-one Chinese vocabulary instruction to children

Journal article

Lanfang Sun, Keyi Zhou, Chin-Hsi Lin*
Journal of Technology and Chinese Language Teaching, 2023

Cite

APA Click to copy
Sun, L., Zhou, K., & Lin*, C.-H. (2023). Applying the total physical response (TPR) method to online one-to-one Chinese vocabulary instruction to children. Journal of Technology and Chinese Language Teaching.

Chicago/Turabian Click to copy
Sun, Lanfang, Keyi Zhou, and Chin-Hsi Lin*. “Applying the Total Physical Response (TPR) Method to Online One-to-One Chinese Vocabulary Instruction to Children.” Journal of Technology and Chinese Language Teaching (2023).

MLA Click to copy
Sun, Lanfang, et al. “Applying the Total Physical Response (TPR) Method to Online One-to-One Chinese Vocabulary Instruction to Children.” Journal of Technology and Chinese Language Teaching, 2023.

BibTeX Click to copy

@article{lanfang2023a,
  title = {Applying the total physical response (TPR) method to online one-to-one Chinese vocabulary instruction to children},
  year = {2023},
  journal = {Journal of Technology and Chinese Language Teaching},
  author = {Sun, Lanfang and Zhou, Keyi and Lin*, Chin-Hsi}
}

Abstract

Chinese as a second language (CSL) learners can now access a wide range of online Chinese learning resources and use them as their primary means of learning Chinese. Meanwhile, online CSL learners are showing a trend of younger age, and finding a suitable teaching method for this age group in online CSL instruction is one of the issues that need to be addressed. The present study applies design-based research, combining the teaching principles, procedures, and forms (i.e., performance form, drawing form, and visual form) of the Total Physical Response (TPR) method and applying it to vocabulary instruction in children's online CSL listening and speaking classes via an online Chinese teaching platform. Detailed teaching design and implementation process are demonstrated, and the effectiveness of using the TPR method in teaching children's Chinese vocabulary online is also evaluated through a comprehensive analysis of four in-class vocabulary proficiency tests, unit tests, parents' comments, and teachers' teaching reflections. Moreover, this paper also provides suggestions for designing physical movements for the TPR method, managing online children's CSL classrooms, and conducting online Chinese instructions for children.