Processamento cognitivo da escrita de texto multimodal em espanhol/LE

Abstract

This study consists of an investigation of proficient writer’s cognitive processing while producing a multimodal text in Spanish as a second language on the computer. The rationale for the study was the realization that the available cognitive models for the writing processes do not include all the aspects of multimodality using the computer, and writing in a foreign language. It was assumed that the cognitive processes of planning, producing, reviewing and editing undergo modifications in the contexts of writing; consequently, cognitive models of the writing process should incorporate these changes. This study is theoretically based on the cognitive models of writing of Flower & Hayes (1980) and of Hayes (1996), on the studies of writing in a second language (Leki (1992); Weigle (2002)), on the concepts of multimodality (Marsh, White, (2003); Kresse, Van Leewuen, (2006)), on the principles of literacy, multiliteracy (Rojo, (2009), (2012); Soares, (2002); Strokes (2002); Viera, (2012)) and digital literacy (Snyder, (1998); Hockly, (2011); Gabriel, (2013)). This interpretative study aimed at identifying, categorizing and analyzing the cognitive and meta-cognitive processes undertaken by proficient writers, 8 teachers of Spanish as a foreign language, while using a computer to write multimodal texts in Spanish. The research utilized qualitative methods and collected data from a questionnaire, an observation protocol and think aloud procedures. Results indicate: (1) the process of reflection is predominant over the processes of writing and reviewing; (2) reading predominates during the process of reflection; (3) the organization of the verbal and visual modes represent a new meta-cognitive sub-process of writing; (4) using the computer, the editing that occurs during the process of reviewing is in fact a re-writing process; and (5) access to the Internet during the writing process promotes the use of new strategies while writing in a foreign language. Emphasis should also be given to the fact that six new strategies were observed: search and choice of image; reading on the Internet; self-interaction; framing; typing; and editing.