Toward Understanding Students’ Learning Strategies in e-Learning Environments

Abstract

This thesis focuses on how students work with e-learning modules which are an integral part of their language courses at the University of Information Technology and Management in Rzeszów. The theoretical part discusses the phenomena of e-learning and distance learning in a historical and a synchronic perspective, as well as the major learning theories applicable. Next, the model of an e-learning programme is presented which the research is based on, operating at the University of Information Technology and Management in Rzeszów. The author of the thesis is co-author of the programme’s content. The last chapter discusses a case study of the e-learning programme presented in the previous chapter as an example of good practice. The conducted research concerns the manner in which students work with the programme, their preferred strategies and effectiveness of the course. In a general view, it can be stated that e-learning will undoubtedly become more common, and better overall e-learning and language learning policy is needed to facilitate its development, both on local and governmental level. While many students are reluctant to embrace change, the e-learning tool seems to be effective. Students should be encouraged to broaden their scope of learning strategies also through such systems in order to learn quicker and more effectively, in particular when the programme provides varied exercises to fit different learning preferences, and helps develop self-organisation skills and life-long learning habits.