Approaches, Effects and Technology Support of Blended Learning for EAP Courses in Postgraduate Education

This study evaluates the approaches, effects and technology support of blended learning for EAP courses in postgraduate education from different perspectives of participants—students, teachers and organizers. The panoramic evaluation of various links of blended learning involving all participants can offer a comprehensive understanding of promises and challenges in the development of EAP as well as blended learning. The research is conducted by a mixed method design comprising questionnaires and interviews for qualitative and quantitative analysis. The results show that participants largely agree on moderate blending of the online setting and the classroom setting in current situations. Participants are generally satisfied with the effects of blended learning in EAP courses, yet limitations are cited such as discrepancy between students and teachers in viewing learning achievements. In addition, the results reveal functionalities and inadequacies of the online learning platform as the technology support to improve specialized language learning. The study gives an all-sided investigation of blended learning by making comparison among various participants and raises some recommendations calling for the cooperation of all participants to facilitate blended learning effectiveness for EAP courses in postgraduate education.