Formative Feedback in Online Distance Language Learning

Abstract

Today, in open and distance learning environments, employing different technologies and methods for individual formative feedback is possible with artificial intelligence. Artificial intelligence-based software can contribute to the learning processes by providing effective and immediate automated feedback (AF). This chapter highlights the importance of formative feedback in the context of distance foreign language teaching and elaborates the use of AF technology as a mean to provide effective, efficient, and attractive feedback. The effectiveness of artificial intelligence-based AF tools in increasing achievement, motivation, and self-sufficiency in English writing activities in distance foreign language learning is discussed within Keller's ARCS (attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction) motivation model. The potential advantages of AF tools and suggestions for their effective use in distance language teaching and learning processes are elaborated within the framework of the ARCS model.