Web-based English language teaching: Preconceptions from university teachers in Iran

Web-based education is a young issue in most developing countries and there are debates on its application into language teaching or complementing the traditional system with virtual learning and teaching. One of the major obstacles on the implementation of such systems into English Language Teaching (ELT) in Iran, besides other possible barriers, has been the disinclination of the teachers and instructors to adopt ICT as an effective tool in language teaching. This study has been an attempt to explore the attitudes of university English instructors toward web-based ELT. A questionnaire including 25 questions - dealing with issues on ELT - were sent to English language instructors and professors in Iran. It was assumed that ELT professionals with enough experience in teaching and exposure to web-based resources can be of considerable help in revealing, at least, the fundamental concerns. The findings suggest that teachers have positive attitudes toward online learning in general. But academic design, quality of education and whether the program could be implemented with the least possible waste of time, money and energy were of highest concern. However, almost all respondents expressed the pressing need for it. Finally it was concluded that in order to develop successful online ELT programs, valuable guidelines could be obtained from university professors and instructors.