Teaching Lexical Chunks in the Online English Language Classroom through Learning Management Systems

Abstract

Current educational trends, globalization and the global Covid-19 pandemic have forced institutions of higher education (HEI) worldwide to accelerate the changes already in progress in teaching and learning approaches incorporating more technological enhanced learning. Among the wide range of information-communication-technology tools, the focus here is on Learning Management Systems (LMS), which play a major role in teaching and learning pedagogy, and can help HEIs to achieve more effective learning outcomes. This exploratory research examines the usage of Learning Management Systems to support the teaching of lexical chunks in the online English language classroom at HEIs. The investigation will focus on Moodle and will identify the factors that support students’ interaction with language content and input in this digital learning environment, by looking at the use of Moodle features and activities to teach and practice lexical chunks. Findings suggest that Moodle proves of great value for online English language teaching and the practice of lexical chunks, whereby quiz activities can be used to great effect, producing motivation to engage with lexical chunks among students.

The effects of a Lexical Approach-based EFL program using Moodle and student attitudes towards it

“…Another study examined individual modules and their popularity among learners and providing resources (67%), assignments (59%) and quizzes (57%) were most popular, whereas forums (28%) and chats (21%) were least popular (Urbonienė & Koverienė, 2013). This was partly confirmed by Deissl-O'Meara and Tinkel's (2021) study where quizzes were by far the most suitable activity for practicing LC, which is consistent with (Suppasetseree and Dennis 2010) who state that 97% of their participants rated quizzes as useful for language learning. Equally, (Gonzalez-Vera 2016) found 90% of participants appreciating the self-assessment quizzes offered through Moodle.…”

“…Moodle quizzes and journals are excellent interactive learning tools that engage learners by simultaneously being gamelike and informative (Urbonienė & Koverienė, 2013). Learners find such activities helpful due to the op-tion of repetition of exercises, of providing a change from traditional tasks and the ability to 'physically' engage with the content by, for example, moving items on the screen (Deissl-O'Meara & Tinkel, 2021).…”