Critical Issues in the English Language Classroom: ICT and Online Learning in Language Education

A critical issue in education since 2020 has been the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic in the teaching and learning process. The pandemic has affected all areas of education and foreign language teaching has not been the exception. The study presents key aspects of teacher experience and training in relation to their use of ICT, which has become ubiquitous for teaching and learning during the last two years. For this study, a mixed methodology approach was used with a semi-structured questionnaire that was administered through social networks as well as WhatsApp and emails. A total of 184 responses were recorded from English teachers from all educational levels, public and private schools as well as language institutions. The results showcase that the main aspects affecting the development of classes are teachers' experience using ICT tools, training received, and technology appropriation. Moreover, the availability of a variety of tools for synchronous and asynchronous instruction, communication, and evaluation allowed teachers to rapidly transition into Emergency Remote Teaching. These results inform education stakeholders of the difficulties and opportunities brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Teacher Characteristics and Experiences in Light of the Challenges Presented by the COVID-19 Pandemic in Paraguay

The advent of COVID-19 generated unprecedented disruptions in the education sector throughout the world. This study presents a comparison of teacher characteristics, perceptions about the development of online educational activities and the difficulties experienced at the beginning of online teaching implementation and at the end of 2020 in Paraguay. A mixed methodology was used with focus group interviews and semi-structured questionnaires administered through electronic means. Teachers from all educational levels in Paraguay, from public and private institutions, were considered. At the beginning of the pandemic, 1030 teachers participated. In the follow-up study, 299 teachers participated, mainly from the capital city and the Central Department. The study revealed significant proportions of teachers who were forced to acquire new equipment and increased technological services. The main means of communication used, at all levels, were WhatsApp and educational platforms. At the end of 2020, there were a higher proportion of teachers trained in the use of technological tools for teaching. The main problem faced by teachers in remote activities is associated with internet connection. Although challenging, teachers also considered the opportunities granted by the situation. These teaching experiences serve to establish and design mechanisms to make education in times of pandemic bearable.