E-Learning Management Systems: Opportunities, Challenges, and Efficacy in EFL Courses[پايان نامه لاتين]

Sahar Yaghoubi

This study assesses the challenges, opportunities, and efficacy of using learning management systems (LMS) in teaching general English courses that were transitioned to online instruction amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The coronavirus pandemic disrupted educational systems globally, necessitating urgent remote teaching through digital platforms like LMS. However, limited preparation time posed difficulties for this abrupt shift to emergency remote teaching (ERT) without established online pedagogical frameworks. The qualitative descriptive research design employs semi-structured interviews and non-participatory classroom observations to gain an in-depth understanding of the challenges faced and opportunities presented during this transition from the perspectives of university educators. A total of eleven English language instructors teaching general English courses at seven prominent universities in Tehran, Iran voluntarily participated in the study by providing their valuable insights. Interviews were conducted remotely using online communication tools. Class observations included 28 sessions taught using LMS platforms. The thematic analysis identified patterns in the data relating to pedagogical, managerial, and technological opportunities, challenges, and efficacy areas encountered according to instructors’ experiential knowledge. Findings provide a contextualized understanding of the realities faced amid societal disruption and the efforts to sustain quality education utilizing available technological means. Insights aim to guide improvements by addressing limitations and constraints inhibiting learning goals, with perspectives applicable beyond the current crisis to strengthen online and blended learning modalities continually.