Electronic Learning in Second Language Teaching and Applied Linguistics
 

What is electronic learning?
In our Programmes, many of our distance/block and on-campus papers are supported through electronic learning, or e-learning. In addition, all NET papers use e-learning exclusively. In particular we use Moodle, a web-based communications tool to support teaching and learning. In addition, all students, when they enroll at the University, are automatically assigned an email username and password and can access a free, web-based email service provided by the University. This means that anyone with a computer and Internet connection can access both their email accounts and Moodle from anywhere in the world. For people based on-campus, computers can be used in the Faculty of Arts and Social computing labs and there is also (limited) computer access in our area.

Who is electronic learning for?
Electronic learning is a tool for all participants in our papers. It is used to encourage and support students' collaborative work, to enhance communication between the lecturer and students, and as a reflective tool in the development of deeper understanding of taught material. In the papers with an e-learning component, assessed work is posted on Moodle. Some assessed tasks are in the form of public group discussions, while other types of assignments are posted in private Portfolios to which only the individual student and the lecturer have access.

Students in distance/block and NET papers have reported overwhelmingly that use of web-conferencing was valuable for their learning. It helped them to maintain regular contact not only with the lecturer, but, importantly, with their classmates. Also, through online access to the library, instructional resources and materials could be located and obtained. In short, many students have said that because of e-learning they felt much more a part of the University community - wherever they happened to be physically located.

How can I learn to use Moodle and other electronic learning tools?
At the beginning of every relevant paper, students will receive training and practice in accessing and using Moodle. This instruction is supported by documentation and simple, practical tasks, including working through a comprehensive online Moodle tutorial. The instructors are very experienced using computers in educational settings and will provide tutorial support, helpful feedback, and problem solving as students become familiar with electronic learning. Students will also be shown how to access other helpful online resources.

In addition, the University maintains excellent general computing HELP facilities through its Information and Technology Services (ITS) Division. Students can obtain friendly, detailed assistance - through email or by telephone - about a wide range of computing issues and problems from the ITS technical staff.

Which papers feature electronic learning?
Not all papers in either programme use electronic learning. This is because, although we value the support that students and lecturers derive from this mode of teaching and learning, we like our students to experience a range of approaches and methods of learning. These include conventional lectures, oral presentations and face-to-face discussions - and, in appropriate papers, practical teaching. But we also wish to leave room for other innovative ways of delivering the content and processes of our graduate papers.