This chapter reported on the construction and development of the metacognitive knowledge (MCK) about web-based distance language learning of two adult English as a foreign language (EFL) learners in China. Drawing upon theories and research in metacognition, self-regulated second/foreign language learning, and distance language learning, the authors investigated adult Chinese EFL learners' knowledge about themselves as online distance language learners, the nature and demands of online distance English learning, and how to best approach their learning in this program. They identified changes in these learners' MCK over the 16 week semester and discussed how a number of contextual factors, including the pre-determined learning structure, teacher-led instructional sessions, and peer interaction opportunities, were significant in shaping and influencing learners' adjustments and revisions of their MCK about online distance language learning. Findings from this study have important implications for the design and implementation of web-based distance language programs for adult learners.

This chapter reported on the construction and development of the metacognitive knowledge (MCK) about web-based distance language learning of two adult English as a foreign language (EFL) learners in China. Drawing upon theories and research in metacognition, self-regulated second/foreign language learning, and distance language learning, the authors investigated adult Chinese EFL learners' knowledge about themselves as online distance language learners, the nature and demands of online distance English learning, and how to best approach their learning in this program. They identified changes in these learners' MCK over the 16 week semester and discussed how a number of contextual factors, including the pre-determined learning structure, teacher-led instructional sessions, and peer interaction opportunities, were significant in shaping and influencing learners' adjustments and revisions of their MCK about online distance language learning. Findings from this study have important implications for the design and implementation of web-based distance language programs for adult learners.

Intensive English language programs (IELPs) worldwide provide comprehensive and condensed English language training to prepare learners for academic and professional studies in higher institutions where English is the primary medium of instruction and communication. It has been found that the curriculum and pedagogy of IELPs have undergone significant changes informed by ongoing research in second language learning and evolving program and institutional goals in different local contexts, especially in TEIL contexts. While the current emphases of IELPs center on collaboration within and beyond IELPs and use of Internet communication technologies for instruction, program goals, curriculum and instruction, and services of the IELPs will continue to undergo reassessment and readjustment under influences from both global and local contexts. Future development of IELPs must address program objectives, curriculum focus, and faculty professional development.

This case study examines factors that influence the construction and development of English as a foreign language (EFL) learners’ metacognitive knowledge (MCK) about English writing in online learning in China. Drawing upon theories and research in metacognition, writing in a second or foreign language (L2), and distance language learning, we investigated two Chinese EFL learners’ knowledge about themselves as EFL writers and the affordances of second language writing instruction in an online language course over a 16-week semester. Findings suggest that the two learners’ adjustments and revisions of their MCK about EFL writing were influenced by several pedagogical factors, including the task design, online writing instruction, and teacher feedback. Findings from this study have important implications for the design and delivery of writing tasks in online language programs for EFL learners.

No abstract