Learners’ Interest in Online Engagement

A Needs Analysis

Abstract

The recent prevalence of AI tools and online platforms in higher education has digitized how second language (L2) learners approach learning and using English. Not only can L2 learners now access language support online, but they can also share their ideas and voice their opinions across a range of online platforms. With more opportunities to interact online, L2 learners need to be adequately prepared for how to express themselves and engage with others across these platforms. Current research on Japanese higher education learners’ online interactions, though, has largely been limited to analyzing discussions on medical forums. Therefore, before constructing a new online forum for English language learners in Japanese higher education to share their voices on a host of opinions and issues, a needs analysis study was conducted to assess what online tools and platforms language learners currently utilize, what they learn from their experiences, and what support they require. An online survey was carried out with 67 first-year university students. A modified version of Chun et al.’s (2016) framework for analysis was used to draw out pertinent findings and proffer pedagogical suggestions. Findings suggest that learners are currently passive in their interactions on public forums. A sizable majority, however, seek to be more engaged in this form of public discourse, but believe they require further language support in order to do so more effectively.