EFL in Synchronous Online Classes | Page 12

5 2.2.2 The outcomes of Distance CLT and TBLT In order to fully comprehend the specifications in the design and implementation of the approaches as well as elements from the approaches used in the scope and sequence, it is essential to review the available scholarly literature on CLT and the implementation of elements of TBLT. CLT is a language teaching approach that has a core emphasis of promoting communication and interaction (Savignon, 2006; Littlewood, 1981). TBLT, on the other hand, integrates interaction and real-life, meaningful tasks in order to achieve the target language learning goals for the purpose of producing authentic language (Nunan, 2015). (Li et al., 2017) illustrated in their study that synchronous classes are conduced face-to-face and one-to-one, and also emphasized the importance of elements of Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) in CMC environments as it places much emphasis on different exercises and activities, such as: gathering information, problem-solving and other tasks which develop critical thinking and are also available via technologies that are web based (Thomas, & Reinder, 2010) to encourage learners’ interaction with the teacher as well as motivation, participation and communication for the purpose of having the learners produce authentic language. Moreover, the impact of distance learning on learners’ cognitive skills was illustrated by Linn (1996) decades ago where it was emphasized that the modern technologies instructors are exposed to nowadays grant them the opportunity to design extraordinary distance learning environments and can have the capability to influence and turn passive learners into autonomous ones if handled effectively and productively. In 2016, Li illustrated in a different article the positive feedback he received according to students’ online English learning experiences by quoting the learners