Second language writing anxiety, computer anxiety,and performance in a classroom versus a web-based environment Cover Image

Second language writing anxiety, computer anxiety,and performance in a classroom versus a web-based environment
Second language writing anxiety, computer anxiety,and performance in a classroom versus a web-based environment

Author(s): Effie Dracopoulos, François Pichette
Subject(s): Education
Published by: Wojskowe Biuro Historyczne im. gen. broni Kazimierza Sosnkowskiego
Keywords: writing anxiety; computer anxiety; second language learning; ESL; distance learning

Summary/Abstract: This study examined the impact of writing anxiety and computer anxiety on language learning for 45 ESL adult learners enrolled in an English grammar and writing course. Two sections of the course were offered in a traditional classroom setting whereas two others were given in a hybrid form that involved distance learning. Contrary to previous research, writing anxiety showed no correlation with learning performance, whereas computer anxiety only yielded a positive correlation with performance in the case of classroom learners. There were no significant differences across learning environments on any measures. These observations are discussed in light of the role computer technologies now play in our society as well as the merging of socio-demographic profiles between classroom and distance learners. Ourdata suggest that comparisons of profiles between classroom and distance learners may not be an issue worth investigating anymore in language studies, at least in developed countries.

  • Issue Year: I/2011
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 101-117
  • Page Count: 17
  • Language: English