ENHANCING TEENAGERS’ COMMUNICATION IN ELT THROUGH COLLABORATIVE WRITING AND VISUAL TOOLS

Abstract

This article explores the integration of collaborative writing and visual tools in English Language Teaching (ELT) to enhance communication skills among teenage learners. The research examines the theoretical foundations of combining written and visual communication, emphasizing how each mode contributes uniquely to language acquisition. Collaborative writing platforms such as Google Docs and Padlet facilitate real-time co-authoring, fostering structured thinking and argumentation skills. Visual collaboration tools like Miro and Jamboard promote creative thinking and simplify complex concepts through interactive visualizations. Practical applications of these tools in ELT are discussed, including group storytelling, essay writing, visual storytelling, infographics creation, online debates, and project-based learning. The study highlights the advantages of incorporating these technologies, such as improved written and oral communication, enhanced critical and creative thinking, and increased student engagement through interactive learning environments. Challenges are also addressed, including technical difficulties, uneven student participation, and organizational issues. The article concludes by underscoring the importance of integrating collaborative writing and visual tools in ELT to prepare students for a digitally interconnected world and suggests future research into the potential impact of emerging technologies like Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) on language learning.