ERIC Number: EJ846866
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2005-Nov
Pages: 18
Abstractor: As Provided
Reference Count: 31
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1492-3831
Tensions in Learner Support and Tutor Support in Tertiary Web-based English Language Education in China
Wang, Tong
International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, v6 n3 Nov 2005
Based on the findings of a national survey conducted in 2004 designed to examine the support systems for both learners and tutors engaged in tertiary-level Web-based English education in mainland China, this paper reports the findings of secondary analysis by identifying the tensions in the current learner and tutor support systems. For "learner support", four tensions were analyzed: (1) vigorous institutional learner support efforts versus learner utilization of the provisions; (2) learner qualities development versus academic support; (3) learner technical competence versus learner participation in online services; and (4) the relationship of face-to-face components and online components in learner support system design. For "tutor support", four tensions were identified: (1) institutional conceptual understanding versus the actual practices; (2) tutor' enthusiasm versus tutor's perception of online education; (3) tutor responsibilities versus tutor commitment, and (4) current tutor support service repertoire versus tutor improvement areas. The paper analyzes possible causes for the tensions and proposes some solutions to address these tensions. (Contains 18 tables and 1 figure.)
Descriptors: Distance Education, Foreign Countries, Internet, National Surveys, College Instruction, English (Second Language), Second Language Instruction, Academic Support Services, Social Support Groups, College Faculty, College Students, Educational Needs, Electronic Learning, Web Based Instruction, Online Courses, Educational Technology, Computer Assisted Instruction, Problems
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: China