Engagement with Livemocha as an Informal Learning Resource - Initial Findings from a Technology University Reading Course in Central Taiwan

Abstract

This study assesses whether learning style and learning strategy impact on our technology university EFL learners’ degree of satisfaction, learning attitude, and other general perceptions with respect to Web 2.0 informal learning with the Livemocha program. A mixed method study was conducted using interviews and a questionnaire based survey. The interview results showed that writing, chatting and speaking are the most attractive functions for our EFL learners. From the survey, no significant correlation was found between learning style or strategy and attitudes to Livemocha. However, significant correlations were found among the four measures of attitude to and perception of Livemocha: participants’ learning attitude, degree of satisfaction and judgment of visual design and website function. Pedagogical significance is discussed for future implementation.