EFL Acquisition in the COVID-19 Pandemic Era: Forward Looking

Abstract

      The COVID-19 pandemic and the accompanying lockdowns all over the world have changed the way students learn English as a Foreign language (EFL) amongst other subjects. Higher Education institutions have currently transformed the traditional mode of instruction into online classes where teaching and learning take place virtually. The concept of language teaching as transmission of information from instructors to students has now become relatively archaic. Nowadays, students should foster transferable academic skills to be able to communicate effectively, whether online or face-to-face, interacting whilst using Blackboard Ultra Collaborate and the like. They should also be able to independently read for information as well as for pleasure, write for a variety of purposes employing language in stretches of discourse, think critically and creatively, and conduct research investigating issues of use. Online instruction of EFL can have its deficiencies, thus obstructing teaching and learning effectiveness. This paper highlights some of the main issues regarding online teaching and learning of EFL during the COVID-19 pandemic era. Seeking appropriate solutions, the paper proposes some suggestions and activities such as implementing virtual exchange projects. Finally, the paper concludes with recommendations for Higher Education institutions and EFL scholars to consider.