E-language learning and teaching in Australia: A case study

Abstract

This article aims to discuss the status quo of e-language learning and teaching in Australia using the Griffith University Chinese program offered through Open Universities Australia (OUA) as a case study. It first points out the indispensability of educational technology for language learning, especially, for Distance Language Education (DLE), by establishing the importance of interaction to communicative language learning. Following a review of the current state of DLE, and an introduction of OUA, this article focuses on the course design of the Chinese program to exemplify how interaction has been engendered in online language learning with the support of advanced educational technologies. This discussion also leads to some recommendations for future online language course design.