Social Impact of Digital English Language Learning Environments

Abstract

The chapter analyzed opportunities and challenges of engaging in fully online teaching. The opportunities for online learning include personal enabler factors; use of metacognitive and compensation strategies; increased interactive and motivating sessions; increased amount of leisure time; teachers' technological and pedagogical knowledge; use of collaboration, networking, and communication initiatives; availability and use of modern technologies; and flexibility of learning. The challenges reported include digital divide as a hindrance to students, insufficient online resources and platforms for online teaching, poor adaptation among students, inadequate information technology skills and resilience among teachers, behavioral and individual personality challenges, lack of social interaction among students, increased anxiety and depression among students, loss of interests and motivation to learn, and finally, inadequate parental supervision. Parents should create a smart environment for home-based teaching and learning.