Investigating the Use of Online Learning Resources by the EAP Students in a UK University

Abstract

This study was undertaken to examine English for Academic Purposes (EAP) students’ perceptions and use of online learning resources (OLR), which are freely and openly available digital materials. The study utilized both quantitative and qualitative research instruments to collect data. EAP students who came to the UK to improve their language and then wished to undertake a postgraduate study there completed pre- and post-questionnaires during the first academic semester. They also replied to semi-structured interview questions after each questionnaire. The findings gave insights into both the students’ awareness to use OLR outside the classroom, and the students’ exercise of learner autonomy through scaffolding from OLR. However, they seemed still dependent on their teacher. The reason of this dependence might be the challenges they faced whilst learning. This study made some recommendations for the design of a scaffolded autonomous e-learning environment in order to benefit from OLR.

Keywords: online learning resources, English for academic purposes, e-learning, scaffolding, learner autonomy

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/10-15-14

Publication date:May 31^st 2019