Second Language Distance Learning: The Issue of Language Certification in the Time of COVID-19

Abstract

Language teaching has undergone numerous changes as a result of COVID-19, and has adapted to the new scenario and digital tools. While the programs for university and language school courses have been modulated to the new teaching conditions, language courses aimed at obtaining certifications require the final exam to remain the same. The present study focuses on eight adult students of Italian as a foreign language. These adults are interested in certification and were previously enrolled in a language course in Italy, but this course was transformed into an online offering due to the coronavirus. Some questions arose: how can one ensure the continuity of the new online language course? What didactic activities and teaching materials could be applied to facilitate online teaching aimed at obtaining a language certification? The aim of this study is to look at the pros and cons of online teaching for obtaining a language certification, and at effective methods and operational procedures for online teaching during COVID-19. The study results have been collected from the teacher’s own didactic experience and through distance learning questionnaires to which the students were subjected.