Blended learning model for the development of EFL learners’ communicative competence (case of South Ural State University: higher school of electronic engineering and computer science)

The world is developing dynamically, and the changes, that occur every day, require instant decision-making. The examples of this are the latest events in the world: lockdown and distance learning. The 21st century has tested humanity for sustainability introducing COVID-19 and many business sectors as well as the education system at all levels had to switch to a remote format. However, the South Ural State University has managed to build a full-fledged online learning system, which provides opportunities for both teaching staff and students. The article reveals the key theoretical and practical aspects of the system of blended learning at the South Ural State University, as a new design for the teaching and learning cooperation: individual education routes depending on the initial level of language proficiency; placement tests to form groups by levels with online support for them; appropriate score-rating system for monitoring students' progress at each level. Moreover, the presented level-based model of education contributes to more effective mastery of communication skills (speaking, listening, writing and reading). The pedagogical model contains three blocks: methodological block, group processes’ block and assessment block. The model was piloted in an online digital course with the students of Higher School of Electronic Engineering and Computer Science. After piloting the model, the survey was conducted among the students that participated in a blended level education program. The aim of our research was to study the satisfaction level of students with the quality of education and to analyze the implementation process of the blended learning technology. During the research the following tasks were solved: the experience of using blended learning in educational process was analyzed, the level of students’ satisfaction with the quality of education system was evaluated. This research shows that the implementation of blended learning technology in educational process had a positive impact on students' learning and the level of students` satisfaction with the education process increased.