The Views of Students Towards Foreign Language Literacy Through Synchronous Distance Education

Abstract

The process of education has been affected mostly by the COVD-19 pandemic process, and distance education methods are getting popular. In line with this situation, the aims of this study are to examine the opinions of prep-class university students on foreign language literacy via synchronous distance education during the COVID-19 pandemic process, to analyse their experiences, and to make forward-looking suggestions. This research has been designed as a case study which consisted of 78 university students (43 male, 35 female) studying at the preparatory classes comprised of different faculties of a state university in Turkey during 2019- 2020 academic year. The data of the study were collected with a questionnaire form consisting of open-ended questions. The data obtained from the research were subjected to content analysis, and the findings were supported by direct quotations from students’ statements. The results showed that comfortable learning atmosphere at home and easy time management are appreciated whereas technical problems and distraction factors affect learning process negatively. Practical applications like online dictionaries increase motivation and transform learning process into a fun activity. On the other hand, decreased participation and lack of face-to-face language practice opportunities cause low motivation and affect the language learning process adversely. In terms of acquiring language skills, it has been found out that SDE slows down skill training, time allocated for speaking practice is not sufficient, and traditional teaching methods are preferred; however, reading is thought to be relatively more appropriate for SDE compared to other language skills. Last but not least another positive finding of the study is that lecturers’ time management skills, professional knowledge, and technological competence are appreciated by the students.