E-Learning in the English Classroom: Comparing Two E-Learning Platforms Impacting Preparatory Year Students’ Language Learning

Abstract

This study compares two e-learning platforms, namely: Blackboard and Oxford iQ Online used by students at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University (IAU) in Dammam, Saudi Arabia. A survey investigating both e-learning platforms was sent to 1364 students to gauge their interest, satisfaction and overall approval as EFL learners with regard to using the platforms in tandem with traditional classroom practices as a way of enhancing their language proficiency and communicative competence (Bachman, 1990). Specifically, one group of 533 students (male and female) participated in a survey about Blackboard, and an additional group of 831 students (male and female) answered questions relating to the Oxford iQ Online platform. All students were part of the Deanship of the Preparatory Year for the 2017 - 2018 academic year. Data collected from the survey were analyzed quantitatively. The findings of this research indicate that students welcome the benefits of incorporating e-learning opportunities to learn and communicate more effectively. In particular, they demonstrated positive viewpoints toward e-learning platforms as a multi- purpose means of strengthening their language development.