Self-instructed Distance e-Learning of Foreign Languages in the Far North of the Russian Federation

Abstract

In this paper, we describe the concept “self-development” in a context of philosophical, psychological and pedagogical science. The essence of the process of self-development appears in different philosophical and psychological scientific schools. Definition of self-development of the personality in distance learning of a foreign language is given. Efficiency of distance education technologies for self-development of the personality is shown by practical consideration. Vast territory, distant locality, undeveloped infrastructure and seasonal character of transport lines of communication are the most common features of foreign language teaching in the Far North regions of the Russian Federation, particularly in the Sakha Republic. In these circumstances, we consider Distance e-Learning to be one of the most optimal form of foreign language learning. The article considers Distance e-Learning as a combination of Distance Education and e-Learning which is characterized by the extensive use of Information and Communications Technologies (ICT) in the delivery of education and instruction as well as the use of synchronous and asynchronous online communication in an interactive learning environment or virtual communities, instead of a physical classroom, to bridge the gap in temporal or spatial constraints.