"Effectiveness of Using Computer-Mediated Communication in Developing EFL Prospective Teachers’ Use of 21st Century Learning Skills"

Abstract
The present study was carried out to investigate the effectiveness of using Synchronous Computer-Mediated Communication (SCMC) in promoting 21^st Century learning Skills, i.e. Critical Thinking (CT) skills and Collaboration, of EFL prospective teachers at the Faculty of Education, Minia University. A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest control group research design was employed. Participants of the study were sixteen female and male EFL professional diploma students. Tools of the study included three main questionnaires: the first was on critical thinking skills and sub-skills, the second was on domains of collaboration skills and the third one used to examine students’ knowledge on SCMC. A language teaching SCMC manual based on CT and collaboration skills was developed by the researcher and used with the study group; a pre-post Collaboration skills Scale and a pre-post CT Test were also used in the study. Analysis of data obtained from students’ responses using Wilcoxon Singed Ranks Test (z-value), revealed that SCMC was significantly effective in nurturing EFL prospective teachers 21^st Century learning Skills, in particular, CT and Collaboration skills. Students’ post performance surpassed their pre performance in both variables. Discussion of these findings, recommendations and suggestions for further research are presented.