| Author: | Li, Ling |
| Title: | Chinese EFL learners' experience on an interactive online language tutoring platform |
| Advisors: | Lin, Phoebe (ENGL) |
| Degree: | M.A. |
| Year: | 2023 |
| Subject: | English language -- Study and teaching-- Chinese speakers English language -- Study and teaching -- Web-based instruction Second language acquisition -- Computer-assisted instruction Hong Kong Polytechnic University -- Dissertations |
| Department: | Department of English and Communication |
| Pages: | 56 pages : color illustrations |
| Language: | English |
| Abstract: | This qualitative study explores the experiences of Chinese English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners using an interactive language online tutoring platform, iTalki, and its potential for addressing gaps in the English learning experiences in China. Three voluntary Chinese EFL learners were recruited through social media platforms and participated in one-on-one interviews after using iTalki. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data, which involved identifying participants' characteristics, classifying themes, and categorizing experiences with iTalki in relation to gaps in the Chinese English education system. The findings reveal that iTalki can meet Chinese learners' demand for training on communicative competence in EFL, which tends to be weak in the mainstream Chinese EFL syllabi. Additionally, iTalki offers opportunities for increased learner autonomy, cultural engagement, enhanced confidence, and a less hierarchical teacher-learner relationship, all of which contribute to learners' motivation. However, iTalki also faces challenges in effectively supporting Chinese EFL learners and further improvements are needed. These findings contribute to the development of effective interactive language learning, offering valuable insights for language educators and learners who are interested in utilizing iTalki as a tool for language learning and development. Also enhances our understanding of the beliefs of Chinese EFL learners. |
| Rights: | All rights reserved |
| Access: | restricted access |
Files in This Item:
| File | Description | Size | Format | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7129.pdf | For All Users (off-campus access for PolyU Staff & Students only) | 630.29 kB | Adobe PDF | View/Open |
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