ONLINE INNOVATIONS: THE PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES IN LANGUAGE TEACHING AND LEARNING

Abstract

The emergence of online language teaching and learning has invigorated learner’s attitude towards the acquisition of knowledge. The digital approaches have paved way for individual and group learning accessibility. This paper explores the various online innovations in language teaching and learning with more emphasis on their accessibility and effectiveness. The study aims to highlight the prospects and challenges in language teaching and learning. The study anchors on the connectivism theory of George Siemens (2005), Connectivism theory which serves as a response to the limitations of traditional learning theory. Responses through questionnaire and oral interview from teachers and students of four tertiary institutions in Imo State constitute the data for analysis through the eclectic design of quantitative and qualitative approach. The study reveals that language teachers and students are interested in adopting and using online innovations in teaching and learning. It is also revealed that the online innovations enhances understanding, supports student-centred learning which widens their horizon and makes learning easier. The study concludes that online innovations which facilitate learning have gone miles in revolutionizing the traditional approach of teaching and learning. Therefore, the study recommends that educational institutions, curriculum planners and stakeholders should encourage online innovations to harness its potentials for better production.