Language learning in the virtual world: Instructors' voices
Pramela Krish
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia
PP: 113 - 129
Abstract
Teaching and learning has taken a new turn in the era of Information Communication Technology (ICT). With this paradigm shift, the focus is on learning and not teaching and the role of an instructor changes from a purveyor of knowledge to that of a facilitator.
This article focuses on 'real-world' learning and the value of 'authentic experiences' shared by instructors teaching English language through an online mode. How do the instructors make learning more authentic, holistic and meaningful in the virtual classrooms? This question is addressed through in-depth interviews with instructors at a virtual university to find out their experiences and new possibilities in the synchronous online teaching and learning.
The results of the study suggest that instructors should carefully plan, implement, and reflect on the activities, while remaining flexible in coping with the complexities of learning in a virtual environment.
Keywords
ICT, English language teaching, online learning
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