ERIC Number: EJ812164
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007-Jan
Pages: 22
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0958-3440
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A Road to Understanding: A Qualitative Study into Why Learners Drop out of a Blended Language Learning (BLL) Environment
Stracke, Elke
ReCALL, v19 n1 p57-78 Jan 2007
This paper addresses the views of students of blended language learning (BLL)--a particular learning and teaching environment, that combines face-to-face (f2f) and computer-assisted language learning (CALL). In this instance, the "blend" consisted of learners' independent self-study phases at a computer, with a CD-ROM, and traditional f2f classroom learning. This paper explores this BLL environment from the participants' perspective and focuses on three learners who left the class. The aim of the study was to understand the reasons behind those students' decision to leave, so that ideas might be developed for the successful implementation of BLL environments in the future that would appeal to all learners. The analysis showed that students left the class for three reasons: a perceived lack of support and connection/complementarity between the f2f and computer-assisted components of the "blend"; a perceived lack of usage of the paper medium for reading and writing; and the rejection of the computer as a medium of language learning. The paper concludes by pointing out implications for the possible future of BLL.
Descriptors: Conventional Instruction, Computer Peripherals, Student Attitudes, Negative Attitudes, Withdrawal (Education), Second Language Instruction, Computer Assisted Instruction, Educational Technology, Blended Learning, Electronic Learning, Technology Integration, Second Language Learning
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
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Language: English
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