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A road to understanding: A qualitative study into why learners drop out of a blended language learning (BLL) environment

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 February 2007

ELKE STRACKE
Affiliation:
School of Languages and International Studies, Division of Communication and Education, University of Canberra, ACT 2601, Australia. [email protected]

Abstract

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.

Type
Research Article
Copyright
© 2007 Cambridge University Press

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