Facilitating the development of learning strategies in an online learning environment

Abstract

This research sets to explore and facilitate language learning strategies in an online learning environment. Massive Open Online Courses are the new technology-enhanced learning approach for online learning. This study, therefore, used MOOCs as a way to deliver the module. A module was designed and delivered to learners online, and then questionnaires were given to them. This study has adopted a mixed-methods approach. The module had an overwhelming response with the enrolment of more than 16,000 learners’ notably more female learners than male learners. The findings indicate that learners prefer metacognitive strategies and they have a tendency to combine them with general learning strategies in the case of language learning. Results further indicate that learners have a positive approach to language learning strategies and want it to be implemented from primary education. The promising feature of the findings is the overwhelming response from the female learners as MOOCs compliment and overcome the constraints that women face in Saudi Arabia. The qualitative findings suggest that learners prefer online learning strategies and regard social media as a useful tool in education, especially when they interact with peers and instructors. Participants gave suggestions and recommendations about how they want the learning to happen. Their suggestions were regarding teaching methods, marketing, quality control and a platform where both learners as well as teachers can evolve. Participants expected teachers to be endowed with academic, interpersonal and teaching skills. They suggested the use of social media for publicity of modules. Participants were keen to have more substantial accreditation for the online courses. They suggested that interactive platforms such as social media, archives and messaging system should be adopted for interactions and learning to happen. These suggestions came in line with what Deng et al. (2019) argued about the lack of sufficient research about the importance of learners’ factors and their influence on MOOC’s development.

Date of Award	Dec 2020
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Queen's University Belfast
Sponsors	Al Imam Muhammad Ibn Saud University
Supervisor	Caroline Linse (Supervisor)