Using a virtual learning environment to promote autonomous language learning for Chinese students

Eoin Jordan*, Mark Coyle

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book or Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

This chapter examines a semester-long Moodle-based programme of monitored quizzes designed to encourage first-year Chinese students at an English medium university in China to engage in English language self-study and autonomous learning. Usage statistics and questionnaire data were collected and analysed in order to investigate overall quiz participation rates, usage patterns across the semester, and the extent to which the programme affected students' attitudes towards self-study. The results indicated that participation rates in the quizzes were high, although activity on the programme pages did decline as the semester progressed. Students also reported via the questionnaire that the programme had helped them learn how to organise their own self-study. However, statistics from Moodle revealed that many participants were not taking the quizzes on a regular, weekly basis, as had been intended, suggesting that the programme may have only been partially successful in fostering autonomous study skills.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationComputer-Assisted Foreign Language Teaching and Learning
Subtitle of host publicationTechnological Advances
PublisherIGI Global
Pages140-158
Number of pages19
ISBN (Electronic)9781466628779
ISBN (Print)9781466628229
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 31 Jan 2013

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Using a virtual learning environment to promote autonomous language learning for Chinese students'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this