Finnish students’ perceptions of key elements in effective online language courses: insights from the KiVAKO project

Abstract

This study explored Finnish students’ perceptions of online language courses with the KiVAKO project (KiVAKO is an acronym in Finnish meaning strengthening the language capital at higher education institutions). The aim was to identify and make visible the aspects that need to be taken into account in designing an effective online language course. The research context included eight pilot courses created and implemented within the framework of the KiVAKO project, which seeks to develop a nationwide online language course offering. Language instruction is offered in Chinese, Estonian, Finnish Sign Language, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish on Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) levels A1-C1. The research data consisted of responses to a post-course online questionnaire. The data were analysed according to a qualitative content analysis method. The findings indicate that clearly structured course design, relevant learning materials, appropriate teacher activities, and aligned assignments enhanced the students’ positive learning experiences.