Lost in translation: intercultural understanding in oral interactions in an e-tandem virtual exchange

Besides linguistic benefits, e-tandem virtual exchanges provide opportunities for intercultural meaning negotiation in interaction. However, several studies showed that learners in such exchanges often engage in lengthy interactions but do not always succeed in intercultural communication. The present paper examines intercultural negotiation of meaning and intercultural understanding by analysing oral interactions between learners during a Spain-Canada e-tandem virtual exchange. A qualitative analysis of these conversations revealed that the interactional features that fostered intercultural understanding included active questioning strategies and displays of interest, aligning with Byram's savoirs.