A Comparative Evaluation of Alternative Blended Learning Models Used for Teaching Academic English (EAP/ESAP) to Students of Computer Sciences

Abstract

This paper describes the use of a number of alternative blended learning models based on a mixture of traditional face-to-face classes with some elements of e-learning in the course of "English for Academic Purposes" (EAP) and "English for Specific Academic Purposes" (ESAP) taught to junior and senior undergraduate students of computer sciences in the undergraduate program of Business Informatics and Software Engineering over a period of time from 2009 to 2012 at the National Research University Higher School of Economics (NRU HSE), Moscow, Russia. The following educational platforms for the implementation of blended learning models were chosen-Wiki (pbworks and wetpaint-2009), sites and services Google ("BI HSE IELTS Class" 2009-2010) and a proprietary all university learning management system (LMS-HSE LMS eFront-2011-2012). The purpose of this study was to investigate the learning and pedagogical opportunities provided by each blended learning environment. The learners' attitude to bended learning environments and the problematic areas associated with academic skills development were detected by conducting a survey at the end of each EAP course. When working with senior years (ESAP) a number of Web 2 technologies were used and the most efficient ones were highlighted. The research outcome showed that despite some problems, students were satisfied with the pedagogical approach used and their academic achievements became significantly better due to online support.