E-LEARNING IN FOREIGN LANGUAGES AND BUSINESS COMMUNICATION TRAINING: WHAT IS GAINED AND WHAT IS LOST

Abstract

In recent years, "e-learning" has become a buzzword appealing to diverse communities including the academia. As an instrument used in higher education, it evolved from an optional, relatively new approach, to an indispensable tool. In order to ensure a superior teaching process, nowadays trainers are focusing on finding new and exciting technological resources in order to attract their students. But does this mean that traditional teaching methods become obsolete? Are students' learning needs better satisfied by using ICT tools? This article will provide answers to these questions, as it discusses the case of foreign languages and business communication teaching at the Bucharest University of Economic Studies. Our research is based on a critical analysis of a twofold survey conducted both among undergraduate students and among foreign language teachers from this institution. We will bring into prominence the advantages and disadvantages of e-learning from both students' and trainers' perspectives, thus trying to offer a complex approach to e-learning in this specific field. To sum up a few of our research findings, we will demonstrate (through a qualitative analysis of data gathered from the two target groups) that learners' and trainers' attitudes towards e-learning differ significantly. While the first tend to emphasize the innovative character of e-learning, the latter are more aware of its pitfalls compared to traditional teaching methods. This study will show that in the field of foreign languages and business communication teaching, the role of a blended approach (mixing traditional and innovative teaching methods) becomes a prerequisite for the education of the future.