International Journal of
Information and Education Technology

Abstract

The literacy demands of work are changing in the face of current global communication networks. This paper focuses on the methodology adopted in a university degree to practise workplace interaction in English, the lingua franca in professional settings. In the present study, the authors have observed the effect of the incorporation of computer-mediated communication combined with simulation-type methodology to improve students’ workplace writing and motivation. Students worked in groups and “blogged” pseudo-professionally with other groups. The analysis of the results shows high motivation on the part of the students. The “writing for a purpose” has permitted more and better language, which indicates that blogs are a potential tool for the development of linguistic skills.