Affiliation:
1. Science and Technology City Campus of the First High School of Suzhou Hi-Tech Zone, Jiangsu Province, China
2. Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University, China
Abstract
Proficiency in writing is vital for EAP education. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted a shift from traditional classrooms to online platforms, leading higher education institutions to adapt their EAP courses accordingly. As students' perceptions and attitudes towards learning methods can significantly affect their effectiveness in acquiring knowledge, it is imperative to understand their perceptions of online EAP writing courses. This study, using surveys and interviews, revealed varied student reactions to online EAP courses. While online learning offers flexibility, it faces challenges including diminished motivation, lack of engagement, and limited interaction. Student satisfaction was linked to factors such as engagement, learning environment, instructor presence, and technology use. Moreover, structured online forums were found useful in enhancing critical thinking. Finally, the study offered three recommendations for the future development of online EAP instruction.