Term
Summer 8-8-2016
Capstone
Thesis
Degree Name
MAT
Primary Advisor/Dissertation Chair
Laura Halldin
Secondary Advisor/Reader One
Eric Lind
Peer-Reviewer/Reader Two
Barb Verville
Abstract
The research question addressed in this project was: How can obstacles to adult ELLs with low levels of English language proficiency participating in distance learning be reduced? Focus groups were conducted with Vietnamese and Somali students to examine their experiences with distance learning. Students spoke of issues of access, difficulty of navigation, and literacy level of online learning content as major frustrations. Translation of computer instruction and increased opportunities to receive computer instruction were among the suggestions students offered for improving distance learning. The student suggestions would be costly for ABE programs to fully implement. Possible avenues for future study include conducting focus groups with a larger and more heterogenous sample, or measuring the efficacy of specific distance learning interventions.
Research Methodology
Case Study, Focus Group
Keywords
Adult Education, ESL/ ELLs, Technology
Recommended Citation
Ryan, Anne Elizabeth Fern, "How can obstacles to adult English Language Learners with low levels of English proficiency participating in distance learning be reduced?" (2016). School of Education and Leadership Student Capstone Theses and Dissertations. 4176.
https://digitalcommons.hamline.edu/hse_all/4176