A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE ESL LEARNER'S PERCEPTION OF VIRTUAL LEARNING VS TRADITIONAL LEARNING IN THE AGE OF CONVERGENCE - A CASE STUDY AT JAZAN UNIVERSITY KSA

Abstract

The emergence of Covid-19 created the stipulation for virtual learning as a teaching platform. This study aims to ascertain the perception of ESL learners about virtual education in contrast with the Traditional one in the age of convergence. The comparative analysis will focus on fathoming the influence of these two platforms' engagement and interaction intensity with the ESL learners and the repercussion of the teaching and learning styles adopted to compete for the hostile circumstances of Covid-19. The methodology used is the quantitative comparative analytical method of research. An electronic questionnaire was used to collect initial data from two samples of classroom size of 60 each; adopted one population from virtual learning and another from a traditional setting. The finding shows that the sample of the virtual learning could have been more satisfied with the engagement, interaction and teaching methods. In contrast, the second sample experienced a wide variety of exposure to the learning style, communications, and engagement and was satisfied with traditional learning. Therefore, to increase the activities and study convenience, blended learning would be a better option to improve learners' contentment.