Exploring Synchronous Learning during COVID-19 Pandemic: Taiwan EFL College Learners’ Motivation and Learning Experience

Abstract

The purpose of this study was twofold: first, to explore Taiwan EFL college learners' motivation for synchronous learning, and second, to differences between gender groups in their synchronous learning motivation during the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 96 undergraduate learners from northern Taiwan took part in the study. All the participants were required to participate in 4 different types of online activities: synchronous learning, online discussion, group oral presentation, and submission of e-assignments. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected, including a motivation questionnaire and learners' essay writing. According to the findings, their overall motivation was positive. Nevertheless, male learners had significantly less confidence in their online performance and less acceptance of this kind of interaction. This study highlights not only the crucial role of motivation in synchronous learning acceptance and engagement but also the importance of gender differences, self-regulation, social interaction, and self-efficacy for effective online learning.