همایش رویکردهای میان رشته ای به آموزش زبان، ادبیات و مطالعات ترجمه

صفحه اصلی / پنجمین همایش رویکردهای میان رشته ای به آموزش زبان، ادبیات و مطالعات ترجمه

Comparing the Efficacy of Two Online EFL Programs with Two Approaches to Distance Language Education: On Roles of Teacher and Content

نویسندگان :

Mohammad Aliakbari¹ Mohammad Mahdi Maadikhah²

1- Ilam University 2- Ilam University

کلمات کلیدی :

distance education،EFL courses،e-learning،online language education،online language learning،web-based learning

چکیده :

With advent and popularity of the internet since 1990s, online language learning has become increasingly widespread. Demand for online EFL programs has grown worldwide, generating questions and debates among educators and researchers on planning and running effective and efficient online language learning programs. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two online Web-based EFL courses at Ilam University e-Learning Center, with two different approaches to course design, educational planning and program development, one centering attention on teacher’s instruction, supervision, leadership and guidance, and the other focusing on dynamic interactive self-study learning contents and tasks. To this end, two homogenous classes of 11 advanced level learners were organized following a placement test. In both classes, Moodle LMS was utilized, while one class used a video conferencing built-in plugin for live and real-time teacher-learner interaction, and the other class relied on interactive and dynamic content developed using Adobe Captivate software, with teacher-learner interaction in form of asynchronous correspondence and voice recording. The syllabus and learning objectives were identical in both classes. Upon completion of the course, the learners took an achievement test. The test results showed that, learners in the video conferencing class outperformed the learners in the content-centered class with asynchronous interaction, indicating higher level of effectiveness and better efficacy of the class with live and real-time interaction through virtual meeting. Further studies with larger groups of learners and using different methodologies can enhance understanding of, and generate better insight on developing and improving online EFL programs.