The use of ICT in supporting distance Chinese language learning - review of The Open University’s beginners’ Chinese course

摘要

Information communication technology (ICT), when used appropriately, can support language learning as well as enhance the learning experience. Although there is a lot of research on the role of technology in distance language learning, there is relatively little research on how it is used to support Chinese language teaching and learning at a distance. This paper reviews the role of technology in The Open University’s Beginners’ course in Chinese. It describes and discusses how and why various technologies are used to support teaching and learning in a context that mixes text and online self-study with attending online and face-to-face tutorials, with regard to the challenges of teaching and learning Chinese at a distance. The paper draws on data from a mixture of questionnaires together with telephone interviews, forum messages and routine statistics to review and evaluate students’ learning experience. In addition, the challenges and limitations of the chosen technologies are considered. The aims of this paper are as follows: i) to offer a fresh perspective on the understanding of distance Chinese language learning and teaching; ii) to share our experiences in the successful application of technology in learning and teaching; and iii) to examine the relationship between the use of technology and learning and teaching.