Abstract:

This paper presents an evaluation of students’ perceptions of learning Arabic through a blended learning model at Deakin University, in Melbourne Australia. It outlines an innovative approach to the teaching of Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) online using a range of sophisticated interactive media assisted delivery strategies in a Blended Learning model (BL). CloudDeakin Arabic online resources use an outcomes-based approach to course design which takes the view that technology can be both tool and tutor in language education. The role of technology in language education is examined as an aspect of curriculum design, that is, the starting point is needs analysis and the resulting curriculum, rather than technology.

An evaluation of the students’ learning experience in the BL model was conducted in 2012 in order to assess how successful and effective the use of the CloudDeakin Arabic resources in meeting the students learning needs.

Analysis the data available reveals that students learning Arabic through the BL model thoroughly enjoy studying Arabic in the BL format and find the online teaching and learning environment a welcome and integral part of their study regime that supports the development of independent learners who can manage their own learning experience at a time and a place of their choice in a very relaxed and non-threatening environment.

Keywords:

Blended Learning, e-learning, use if technology in language education, online language learning.