The Impact of Foreign Language Anxiety on EFL Learners’ Attitudes Towards Blended Learning

Abstract

This study investigates the attitudes of Saudi English as a foreign language (EFL) learners toward blended learning and explores the impact of foreign language anxiety on shaping these attitudes. The study sample selected purposively consisted of 118 participants. A quantitative research approach was employed, utilizing a self-reported questionnaire to assess learners’ foreign language anxiety and their attitudes toward blended learning. The study yielded the following significant findings: First, the results revealed that EFL learners exhibited positive attitudes toward blended learning. Second, findings indicated that EFL learners involved in blended learning exhibited a moderate level of foreign language anxiety. Third, the study revealed that foreign language anxiety had no significant impact on the following four key constructs of attitudes toward blended learning: flexibility, study management, classroom learning, and online interaction, as well as overall attitudes. However, it was observed that the high-anxiety group exhibited more positive attitudes toward online learning and technology in blended learning compared with the low-anxiety group. These findings have pedagogical implications for educators and practitioners designing and implementing blended learning approaches in EFL classrooms. The study results recommend integrating blended learning in higher education, taking into account high-anxiety learners’ preferences of two aspects of blended learning: online learning and the integration of technology.