Looking into EFL Students' Preferences in Turning On and Off Their Video Camera during Virtual Learning: What Does it Imply?

Abstract

Video conferencing tools with their webcam features are among the platforms that support the implementation of an online learning system amid the Covid-19 pandemic. Thus, students' attitudes toward webcam use can carry out essential meanings in the teaching-learning process in distance learning. Through a survey method, the present study aimed to determine students' preferences toward webcam use and the reasons behind their behavior. The results indicated that Indonesian EFL students at an average level agreed to keep their webcams on during virtual classrooms. To this point, there are situations where they turn their webcams on and off during courses in a week. Several reasons, such as facing anxiety issues, having an internet connection problem, and concerning their privacy, become the primary reasons why they turned the camera off. Findings also highlighted that even though students had some difficulties using it, they tried to keep their cameras on during several courses even if it was not mandatory. It was sought to show respect and closeness to their lecturers and be more attentive in joining the online classes. Thus, the study offers implications for educators to encourage-not as mandatory-their students to turn their webcam on during online classes. Emphasize