Thursday, February 26th, 2026  - 11:00 am (GMT+2)

Gesture Use and Interactional Dynamics in L2 Speakers: A Comparative Study of Face-to-Face and Online Interactions

Renia Lopez, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University & Loulou Kosmala, Université Paris-Est Créteil 

This talk explores how second language (L2) speakers use gestures differently in face-to-face versus online video-mediated interactions via Zoom. While gestures are known to facilitate understanding, turn-taking and meaning-making in L2 communication, the shift to digital platforms may alter their visibility and function. Comparing conversations among Cantonese learners of English across both settings, our study finds that face-to-face interactions promote greater interactional cohesion, including more instances of repeated gestures between partners in co-constructed turns. In contrast, online exchanges feature fewer interactive gestures during longer individual turns, potentially reducing multimodal engagement. We will elaborate with specific examples to show how speakers repeat gestures and employ interactive gestures to co-construct meaning collaboratively. Ultimately, the context significantly shapes gestural communication, highlighting implications for teaching and assessment in both physical and virtual environments.

Registration opening soon!