El proyecto «¿Qué tal?»la debilidad del nativo en programas e-tandem

Abstract

The “Qué tal?” email tandem project was implemented in 2012-2013 within the Translation and Interpreting Degree in English at Pablo de Olavide University (Seville, Spain). The project aimed at providing future translators of English and North American students with a realistic, selfguided learning context to improve their reading and writing skills. Error detection and feedback on mistakes were at the centre of the task. As in previous studies (Appel, 1999; Appel y Mullen, 2000 y 2002; Appel y Gilabert, 2002; Braun, 2006; Muñoz Vicente, 2013; Schenker, 2012; Ushioda, 2000), this paper analyses how the principles of autonomy and reciprocity operate as the project faces a series of challenges. The ultimate goal is to discuss the shortcomings of e-tandem exchanges when they rely on participants’ motivation and their command of the native language.