Abstract:

The increasingly demanding language requirements of specialized employment sectors along with the fast pace of life experienced by employees in these sectors pose a challenge for students wishing to improve their linguistic competencies. University language tutors have attempted to respond to this challenge with the creation of online courses that enable such students to adapt their learning to their individual schedules and lifestyles. However, the vast majority of learning management systems used in these online courses are not designed with language learning in mind. Thus, they are not always the most suitable platform for the building of an effective language course.

This research aims to determine the essential functionality required by a learning management platform that seeks to provide a flexible learning process capable of adapting to the language learning needs of university students.

This paper examines mechanisms for the integration of online learning environments into blended learning courses. It focuses on the following parameters; course requirements, assignment types, linguistic range or activity, and course administrator requirements. It finds that successful integration is achieved through the implementation of pedagogical strategies that enhance and consolidate the knowledge of language learners through individualization of the learning process.

The paper concludes by considering the creation of courses that achieve individualization of learning paths through the utilization of multiple learning paths that result in courses that are more flexible and efficient in terms of adaptation to the learning style of a particular user.

Keywords:

LMS, learning management system, blended learning course, high-level learner, e-learning, English language teaching and learning.