Effective conversational practice in an Icelandic LMOOC

Abstract

[EN] This paper presents a course design that aims to effectively integrate conversational practice into an Icelandic Language Massive Open Online Course (LMOOC). Additionally, it introduces an ongoing survey study investigating the perceptions and engagement of learners (n = 60) in live oral communication sessions that are offered within the program’s specific distance learning mode. The study aimed to: a) ascertain whether students are motivated to participate in the optional group sessions; b) identify the main factors that motivate them to participate in these sessions; c) determine whether the live sessions fulfill their expectations; and d) identify why some students choose not to attend the live sessions offered. Results indicate that most of the participants in the study took advantage of the opportunity and attended some or all of the conversation classes offered. The results also show that attendees were primarily motivated by the opportunity to practice communication and pronunciation in the target language. Moreover, the findings demonstrate that most of the participants in both courses highly valued the live sessions, finding them to either meet or surpass their expectations. Regarding non-attendees, data suggests that scheduling constraints and anxiety about speaking and meeting others posed challenges for some individuals.