Google Meet as a synchronous language learning tool for emergency online distant learning during the COVID-19 pandemic: perceptions of language instructors and preservice teachers
- 29 April 2021
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Emerald in Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education
- Vol. 14 (2), 640-659
- https://doi.org/10.1108/jarhe-04-2020-0085
Abstract
There are currently no studies concerning the use of Google Hangout in North Cyprus. Thus, this study examines the perceptions of preservice teacher and language instructors on the use of Google Meet (GM) as a synchronous language learning tool for a distant online program in Cyprus. To elicit information on the perception of preservice teachers and language instructors on this issue, a quantitative research design was used for this study. Though the language instructors deemed GM effective and efficient as a language learning tool, the preservice teachers thought otherwise. It was difficult to collect data during this pandemic outbreak. Obtaining ethical consent from the participants was difficult as well and so the sample size was small. The study was able to demonstrate that the use of GM was somewhat effective as a language learning tool for the online distant program, though the level of efficiency and effectiveness varies from preservice teachers to the language instructors. Also, the study was able to highlight the use of GM could be very effective if it is well managed by the teachers to stimulate student engagement during lessons. The study showcased that the unavailability of Internet data, poor Internet connection are possible constraints to the efficiency of GM. Recently, a university in Northern Cyprus has decided to partner with a telecommunication network (Turkcell) toward providing free Internet access for all registered students within a particular period of learning. This is a welcomed approach that can be emulated by other educational facilities in bridging the gap created by poor Internet connection in a remote online learning setting. There are no studies within the context of North Cyprus on the use of GM as a synchronous language learning tool for online distant programs. Though the use of GM is adjured effective and efficient, this contextual overview of GM is a new insight into academia.Keywords
This publication has 16 references indexed in Scilit:
- Educational apps from the Android Google Play for Greek preschoolers: A systematic reviewComputers & Education, 2018
- Virtual Learning Communities in Google Plus, Implications, and Sustainability in MOOCsJournal of Information Technology Research, 2016
- Critical Argument and Writer Identity: Social Constructivism as a Theoretical Framework for EFL Academic WritingCritical Inquiry in Language Studies, 2015
- Transactional distance in an undergraduate project-based systems modeling courseKnowledge-Based Systems, 2014
- Public Health Practice Course Using Google PlusCIN: Computers, Informatics, Nursing, 2014
- The Usability Perception Scale (UPscale): A Measure for Evaluating Feedback DisplaysLecture Notes in Computer Science, 2013
- Students’ experience of synchronous learning in distributed environmentsDistance Education, 2011
- Peer interaction: the experience of distance students at university levelJournal of Computer Assisted Learning, 2010
- Mastery LearningPublished by SAGE Publications ,2008
- Planning for Effective Co-Teaching The Key to Successful InclusionRemedial and Special Education, 1996