Dr. Breffni O'Rourke

Associate Professor Applied Linguistics, C.L.C.S.

Breffni.ORourke@tcd.ie 3531896 3162 http://www.tcd.ie/slscs/staff/orourkeb

Biography

Breffni O'Rourke is Associate Professor in Applied Linguistics and Head of the Centre for Language and Communication Studies (CLCS), in the School of Linguistic, Speech, and Communication Sciences. Professor O'Rourke's research focuses on the use of online technologies for language and intercultural learning, including eTandem and blended models. In particular, he investigates peer interaction in online language learning contexts, using innovative discourse analysis and eye-tracking methodologies. Other research interests include the construct of discussion engagement; the use of eye-trackers to investigate aspects of online communication, such as alignment between online chat partners; and the use of immersive social virtual reality for online language and intercultural learning. He has been vice-president of UNICollaboration, the cross-disciplinary organisation for telecollaboration and virtual exchange in higher education, and a committee member of the Irish Association for Applied Linguistics (IRAAL). Professor O'Rourke teaches modules at undergraduate and postgraduate level on discourse analysis; first language acquisition; technology, language, and communication; and pedagogical grammar of English. He holds a Ph.D. and M.Phil. from Trinity College Dublin, and an M.A. and B.A from the University of Galway.

Associate Professor Applied Linguistics, C.L.C.S.

Publications and Further Research Outputs

Peer-Reviewed Publications
Non-Peer-Reviewed Publications

Breffni O'Rourke, Eye-tracking as evidence of individual and discourse processes in online communication, Eyetracking as a research method in online language education, Open University, Milton Keynes, 12-13 June, 2015, Open University, Cambridge University Press, British Association of Applied LinguisticsInvited Talk, 2015
Eyetracking in CALL - present and future in, editor(s)Ana María Gimeno Sanz Mike Levy Françoise Blin David Barr , WorldCALL: Sustainability and Computer-Assisted Language Learning, London and New York, Bloomsbury, 2015, pp285 - 298, [Breffni O'Rourke, Lijing Shi, Bryan Smith, Ursula Stickler, Claire Prendergast]Book Chapter, 2015
Breffni O'Rourke, Synchronous technologies for language learning: promises and challenges in research and pedagogy, Language. Learning. Technology, Leuphana, University of Lueneburg, 20-21 November, 2015Invited Talk, 2015, URL
Breffni O'Rourke, Helen O'Sullivan, Gillian Martin, A discourse-analytic framework for conversational engagement in online discussion tasks, part 2: level of analytic depth, Eurocall 2015, Padova, 26-29 August 2015, 2015Conference Paper, 2015, URL
Innovation in Language Learning and Teaching, 10, 1, (2016), Lewis, Tim, O'Rourke, Breffni, Dooly, Melinda, [eds.]Journal, 2016, DOI
Lewis, Tim, O'Rourke, Breffni, Dooly, Melinda, Innovation in language learning and teaching - Online Intercultural Exchange, Innovation in Language Learning and Teaching, 10, (1), 2016, p1 - 5Journal Article, 2016, DOI
Jager, Sake Kurek, Malgorzata O'Rourke, Breffni, New directions in telecollaborative research and practice: Selected papers from the second conference on telecollaboration in higher education, Dublin, Research-Publishing.net, 2016Book, 2016, DOI , URL
New directions in telecollaborative research and practice: Introduction in, editor(s)Jager, Sake Kurek, Malgorzata O'Rourke, Breffni , New directions in telecollaborative research and practice: selected papers from the second conference on telecollaboration in higher education, Dublin, Research-Publishing.net, 2016, pp1 - 15, [Jager, Sake; Kurek, Malgorzata; O'Rourke, Breffni]Book Chapter, 2016, URL
O'Rourke, Breffni, Defining and exploring engagement in classroom discussion, IRAAL Annual Conference 2016: Paradigm shifting in applied linguistics: New theories and new methods, Dublin, 19 November 2016, 2016Conference Paper, 2016
O'Rourke, Breffni, New Directions in Telecollaborative Research and Practice: The Second Conference on Telecollaboration in University Education, 2016Meetings /Conferences Organised, 2016, URL
Language Learning in Higher Education: Special Issue on synchronous communication technologies in language and intercultural learning and teaching in higher education, 7, 1, (2017), 1-238p, O'Rourke, Breffni; Stickler, Ursula, [eds.]Journal, 2017, DOI , URL
O'Rourke, Breffni; Stickler, Ursula, Synchronous communication technologies for language learning: Promise and challenges in research and pedagogy, Language Learning in Higher Education, 7, (2), 2017, p1 - 19Journal Article, 2017, DOI
Michel, Marije; O'Rourke, Breffni, What drives alignment in SCMC? Insights from eye-tracking and stimulated recall, Seventh International Conference on Task-Based Language Teaching, University of Barcelona, 19-21 April 2017, 2017Conference Paper, 2017
O'Rourke, Breffni, Form-focused interaction in online tandem learning, CALICO Journal, 22, (3), 2005, p433 - 466Journal Article, 2005
Learner databases and virtual worlds - Using computers to create collaborative learning environments in, editor(s)M. Ruane D. P. Ó Baoill , Integrating Theory and Practice in LSP and LAP, Dublin, ALC & IRAAL, 2000, pp123 - 132, [O'Rourke, B. and K. Schwienhorst]Book Chapter, 2000
O'Rourke, B., A network-based tool for organizing second-language vocabulary, ED-MEDIA / ED-TELECOM, Freiburg, edited by T. Ottmann and I. Tomek , Association for the Advancement of Computing in Education, 1998Conference Paper, 1998
O'Rourke, B., Report on the design of a multimedia tool for self-access language learning, CERCLES, Dresden, edited by D. Little and B. Voss , CERCLES, 1997, pp163 - 175Conference Paper, 1997
The crystalline structure of knowledge: Education and the participation of the individual mind in culture in, editor(s)H. Rasche and C. Schönfeld , Denkbilder. Festschrift für Eoin Bourke, Tübingen, Königshausen & Neumann, 2004, pp395 - 406, [O'Rourke, B.]Book Chapter, 2004
Talking text: Reflections on reflection in computer-mediated communication in, editor(s)D. Little, J. Ridley and E. Ushioda , Learner autonomy in the foreign language classroom: teacher, learner, curriculum and assessment, Dublin, Authentik, 2003, pp47 - 60, [O'Rourke, B. and K. Schwienhorst]Book Chapter, 2003
Little, D., E. Ushioda, M. C. Appel, J. Moran, B. O'Rourke and K. Schwienhorst, Evaluating tandem language learning by e-mail: report on a bilateral project, Dublin, CLCS, Trinity College Dublin, 1999Report, 1999
Michel, Marije, and O'Rourke, Breffni, What drives alignment during text chat with a peer vs. a tutor? Insights from cued interviews and eye-tracking, System, 83, 2019, p50 - 63Journal Article, 2019
O'Rourke, Breffni, Intercultural encounters as hospitality. An interview with Richard Kearney, Journal of Virtual Exchange, 1, 2018, p25 - 39Journal Article, 2018, DOI , TARA - Full Text
Language Learning and Technology: Special issue on New Developments in Virtual Exchange in Foreign Language Education, 23, 3, (2019), O'Dowd, Robert and Breffni O'Rourke, [eds.]Journal, 2019, URL
O'Dowd, Robert, and Breffni O'Rourke, New Developments in Virtual Exchange in Foreign Language Education, Language Learning and Technology, 23, (3), 2019, p1 - 7Journal Article, 2019
Senkbeil, Karsten; Martin, Gillian; O'Rourke, Breffni, SpEakWise VR: Exploring the use of Social Virtual Reality in telecollaborative language learning, Euocall 2022, Reykjavik / online, 16-19 August 2022, 2022Oral Presentation, 2022, URL
Hult, Francis M.; O'Rourke, Breffni, Innovation and creativity in virtual spaces: CALL and the future of education - colloquium at AAAL 2023, 20 March 2023, In:Euocall 2022, 2023, Portland, OregonMeetings /Conferences Organised, 2023
The language of situated joint activity: Social virtual reality and language learning in virtual exchange in, editor(s)Senkbeil, K. and Ahlers, T. , Virtual Reality in den Geisteswissenschaften: Konzepte, Methoden und interkulturelle Anwendungen, Frankfurt, Peter Lang, 2024, [Martin, Gillian; O'Rourke, Breffni; Werner, Sina]Book Chapter, 2024
Gillian Martin, Breffni O'Rourke, Sina Werner, "Du hast eine Hand verloren", - "Yeah that happened before": Investigating situated language in SVR, EUROCALL 2023, Reykjavik, 15-18 August 2023, 2023Conference Paper, 2023
Breffni O'Rourke, Gillian Martin, Sina Werner, What does Social Virtual Reality have to offer in a language-focussed online exchange?, Exploring the Impact of Virtual Exchange on Teacher Education, León, Spain, 8-9 February 2024, 2024Conference Paper, 2024, URL
Activation of literal and idiomatic meanings during on-line processing of L1 and L2 idioms in, editor(s)Arabski, J. , Challenging tasks for psycholinguistics in the new century, Katowice, Oficyna Wydawnicza Waclaw Walasek, University of Silesia, 2007, pp267 - 282, [Cieslicka, A., O'Rourke, B., Singleton, D.]Book Chapter, 2007
The problem of data in L2 computer mediated communication research in, editor(s)Koetter, Markus Traxel, Oliver Gabel, Stephan , Investigating and facilitating language learning, Trier, Wissenschaftlicher Verlag, 2006, pp131 - 144, [Breffni O'Rourke]Book Chapter, 2006
Models of Telecollaboration (1): E-Tandem in, editor(s)Robert O'Dowd , Online Intercultural Exchange, Clevedon, Multilingual Matters, 2007, pp41 - 61, [Breffni O'Rourke]Book Chapter, 2007
Breffni O'Rourke, The Other C in CMC: What Alternative Data Sources Can Tell Us About Text-Based Synchronous Computer Mediated Communication and Language Learning, Computer Assisted Language Learning, 21, (3), 2008, p227 - 251Journal Article, 2008, DOI , URL
The processing of multi-word units: Evidence from readers' eye movements in, editor(s)Myczko, K., Skowronek, B., Zabrocki, W. , Perspektywy glottodydaktyki i językoznawstwa. Tom jubileuszowy z okazji 70. urodzin Profesora Waldemara Pfeiffera, Poznań, Wydawnictwo Naukowe UAM, 2008, pp39 - 55, [Cieślicka A, O'Rourke B, Singleton D.]Book Chapter, 2008
Salience or context in the processing of L1 and L2 multi-word units? in, editor(s)Wysocka, M. , On language structure, acquisition and teaching, Katowice, University of Silesia Press, 2009, pp293 - 304, [Cie licka, A, O'Rourke, B., Singleton, D.]Book Chapter, 2009
Language and learners, interdependence and autonomy in, editor(s)O'Rourke, Breffni and Lorna Carson , Language learner autonomy: Policy, curriculum, classroom, Oxford, Peter Lang, 2010, ppxix - xxv, [Carson, Lorna and Breffni O'Rourke]Book Chapter, 2010, URL
O'Rourke, Breffni and Lorna Carson, Language Learner Autonomy: Policy, Curriculum, Classroom, Oxford, Peter Lang, 2010, 1-413ppBook, 2010, URL
'The Irish are too polite': Analysing stereotype and identity dynamics in student webchat in, editor(s)Arnd Witte and Theo Harden , Intercultural competence: Concepts, challenges, evaluations, Oxford, Peter lang, 2011, pp393 - 409, [O'Sullivan, Helen, Martin, Gillian, and O'Rourke, Breffni]Book Chapter, 2011
Breffni O'Rourke, Metalinguistic knowledge in instructed second language acquisition: A theoretical model and its application in computer-mediated communicationi, University of Dublin, Trinity College, 2003Thesis, 2003, TARA - Full Text
Using eye-tracking to investigate gaze behaviour in synchronous computer-mediated communication for language learning in, editor(s)M. Dooly and R. O'Dowd , Researching Online Interaction and Exchange in Foreign Language Education: Methods and Issues, Oxford, Peter Lang, 2012, pp305 - 341, [O'Rourke, B.]Book Chapter, 2012
Introducing Blended Learning into Tertiary Level German: An Activity Theoretical Analysis in, editor(s)John L. Plews and Barbara Schmenk , Traditions and Transitions: Curricula for German Studies, Waterloo, Wilfrid Laurier University Press, 2013, pp315-332 , [G S Martin, H O'Sullivan, B O'Rourke]Book Chapter, 2013
Breffni O'Rourke and Claire Prendergast, Eye-tracking in SCMC for language learning, WorldCALL, Glasgow, 10-13 July 2013, 2013Conference Paper, 2013
Breffni O'Rourke, Online synchronous discourse in tandem language learning: insights from an eye-tracker study, New Insights into the Study of Conversation. Applications to the Language Classroom, Granada, 26-28 May, 2010Conference Paper, 2010
O'Rourke, B, Martin, G.S., O'Sullivan, H, A discourse analytic framework for conversational engagement in online discussion tasks., EuroCALL, Groningen, 20-23 August 2014, 2014Conference Paper, 2014, URL , TARA - Full Text

Preface in, editor(s)Jager, Sake Kurek, Malgorzata O'Rourke, Breffni , New directions in telecollaborative research and practice: selected papers from the second conference on telecollaboration in higher education, Dublin, Research-Publishing.net, 2016, ppxxv - xxviii, [O'Rourke, Breffni]Book Chapter, DOI , URL
O'Rourke, B., Review of Tandem learning on the internet: learner interactions in virtual online environments (MOOs), by M. Kötter , System, 33, (1), 2005, p187-189Review
O'Rourke, B., Review of Media - Multimedia - Omnimedia, by Hogan-Brun, G. and Jung, U. H. , System, 28, (4), 2000Review
O'Rourke, B., Review of Language Teaching and Language Technologies, by Jager, S. et al. (eds.) , System, 27, 1998, p587-591Review
Breffni O'Rourke, Virtual reality in virtual exchange settings, SALIS Applied Linguistics group, Dublin City University, DCU, 6 November 2023, 2023, SALIS Applied Linguistics groupInvited Talk
Breffni O'Rourke, Gillian Martin, Sina Werner, Situated Language in Social Virtual Reality for Virtual Exchange, Virtual Exchange for the Post-pandemic Era: DEI in a virtual global context. A Global Symposium, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 5 May 2023, 2023, UIUC College of EducationInvited Talk
Breffni O'Rourke, Review of Language, learning, and teaching: Irish research perspectives, by F. Farr and M. Moriarty (eds.) , Language and Intercultural Communication, 2014Review
Breffni O'Rourke, Web 2.0 and the digitally pre-literate language classroom, WEB 2.0 AND LANGUAGE LEARNING: DEFINABLE BOUNDARIES?, University of Limerick, 1 June, 2012, School of Language, Literature, Culture and CommunicationInvited Talk
Breffni O'Rourke, Becoming biliterate in English and Spanish, 16 March, 2013, Association of Spanish Parents in IrelandInvited Talk
O'Rourke, Breffni, Telecollaboration for foreign language learning: How and why?, International Conference on Human and Material Resources in Foreign Language Learning, Murcia, 14 July, 2006, Universidad Católica San AntonioInvited Talk

I work chiefly in the area of technologies for language learning and teaching. Recent technological developments have transformed the everyday communicative landscape for users of most languages, and can be transformative of language pedagogy. But pedagogical practice lags innovations and social developments. Researchers in technology-enhanced language learning aim to help learners, teachers and curriculum designers to understand and systematically exploit the potential of new media and technologies. My main interest is in the potential of online communication between language learners, particularly telecollaboration or virtual exchange, a burgeoning area of practice and research. My publications on online tandem learning and metalinguistic focus in online chat are widely cited. Focuses of investigation include: - Learner/learner interaction in virtual exchange environments: attention to linguistic form; discussion engagement; communicative alignment. These phenomena are central to online language learning, but they also have consequences for our understanding of communication generally. - Eye-tracking methodology: I have pioneered the use of eye-tracking methods to explore online communication, alongside innovative discourse analysis techniques. - Virtual reality in online language and intercultural learning: I explore the linguistic and communicational affordances of immersive virtual reality, and their pedagogical potential.

Education, Languages and literature,

Recognition

Provost's Teaching Award - nominee 2012-2013
European Language Label - winner for Speakwise project, with Gillian Martin and Helen O'Sullivan 2010
Provost's Teaching Award - nominee 2016-2017

European Association for Computer Assisted Language Learning (EuroCALL)
UniCollaboration: Board Member / Publications Officer / Vice President 2021
Irish Association of Applied Linguistics
European Confederation of University Language Centres (CERCLES)
Irish Association for Applied Linguistics: Executive Committee 2005

Board Member / Publications Officer, UNICollaboration: the Association for Telecollaboration and Virtual Exchange in Higher Education 2016
Editor-in-chief, Language Learning in Higher Education 2016
Scientific committee member, Bellaterra Journal of Teaching & Learning Language & Literature 2014
Vice President, UNICollaboration 2018
Executive Committee, Irish Association for Applied Linguistics 2002-2005
Executive Committee, Irish Association for Applied Linguistics 2002-2005
Scientific committee member, Bellaterra Journal of Teaching & Learning Language & Literature 2014