Evaluating the Long-Term Effects of Online Learning on Speaking and Listening Skills

With the proliferation of online learning, its long-term effects on speaking and listening skills have become a topic of study. In digital environments, live interactions are often more limited than in face-to-face classes, which can reduce opportunities for spontaneous speaking practice and immediate feedback. Learners who rely on pre-recorded or text-based content may struggle to understand everyday idioms or maintain fluency, as the lack of real-world conversational situations limits their linguistic flexibility. On the other hand, online learning provides access to a variety of auditory resources, such as podcasts, videos, and lectures with different accents and speeds, which in the long run can facilitate the strengthening of listening comprehension through continuous exposure to natural language input. In the area of speaking skills, some studies suggest that reduced face-to-face interactions may lead to reduced confidence in expressing ideas or using complex language structures, particularly in people who avoid participating in virtual group discussions. However, platforms that use AI tools to simulate conversation or assess pronunciation allow for personalized practice and error correction without human judgment. This can improve speaking accuracy over time, although it is not a complete replacement for human interaction. A key point in long-term evaluation is the role of user adaptability. Learners who actively seek out online conversation opportunities (such as virtual clubs or language exchanges) are likely to maintain or even improve their skills, while the imbalance between auditory input and spoken output in one-way systems may lead to poor language production. Also, technology dependency—such as communication latency or poor audio quality—can disrupt focus on understanding linguistic nuances. Online learning as a complementary tool, when combined with interactive methods and conscious attention to speaking practice, can have positive effects. However, neglecting to design interactive and communicatively rich learning environments risks creating a gap between theoretical knowledge and the ability to apply the language in practice.

کلیدواژه ها:

long-term ، online learning ، proficiency ، speaking ، listening