Eleanor Carson

Matsuyama University

Eleanor Carson has been teaching English in Japan for over 10 years. She recently earned a Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics at Hiroshima City University and currently teaches EFL classes at Matsuyama University. Her research interests include the medium of instruction, WTC, learner autonomy, self-efficacy, and motivation in EFL contexts.


Sessions

Autonomy, Efficacy, Language Preference, and WTC

College & University Education
Sun, Nov 22, 10:45-11:10 JST

EFL learners must use their second language (L2) to learn well, but this is challenging. Research was conducted to explore unknown relationships between learner autonomy, self-efficacy, and student preferences for instructional language on their willingness to communicate (WTC). Participants (n=100) from first- and second-year EFL university classes in Western Japan completed questionnaires at the beginning, middle, and end of two 15-week terms. Presenters discuss significant correlations between all four variables.

How Remote Learning Impacts Medium of Instruction

College & University Education
Sat, Nov 21, 16:45-17:10 JST

Medium of instruction (MOI) is a controversial topic in ELT research and practice, with instructors holding different principles concerning the use of English and students’ languages. What happens to these principles, however, when courses shift to remote learning? This study describes a survey at three Japanese universities to assess how remote learning impacted teachers’ MOI. Findings suggest that some teachers compromise their MOI principles during frustrating circumstances, leading to stress and uncertainty.