Traditional versus e-learning language lessons courses: a comparative analysis of student perceptions and performance through an Arabic language lessons: a case study

Despite broad research on the value of technology in education, there is little information on the contribution of e-learning to second language learning. This study investigated the extent to which the Internet can contribute to students’ learning of a second language through involved a study of students enrolled in an Arabic as a second language course in Saudi Arabia. In particular, this study aimed to investigate how the learning of Arabic language students enrolled at the Islamic University in Madinah could be enhanced through use of the Internet, and consider how the Internet may further assist student’s Arabic literacy development. The perceptions and performance of students was recorded, and a comparison was made between students in a Traditional learning environment (i.e. face to face) and those in a Blended learning environment (i.e. a combination of traditional and online learning). A quantitative approach was used to collect data through pre-test and post-test questionnaires. These questionnaires gathered information related to the students’ perceptions, their behaviours and attitudes. Student performance was also measured to determine the effectiveness of each of the learning environments. This study found that student performance was enhanced through the use a Blended learning environment.