This study explores Korean EFL learner preferences and perceptions of digital composing (DC) with innovative online technology tools during the implementation of emergency remote learning measures. The research compares learner use of text-based DC and voice-based audio asynchronous online discussion (AOD). This paper investigates the following research problem: What digital modes of interactive, online instructional design can serve as appropriate, learner-accepted replacements for offline instruction? One prior finding indicated that Korean undergraduate EFL learners preferred text and audio DC to video modes. To follow up, this paper investigates 57 learners’ preferences and perceptions toward text-based and voice-based DC, and compares the results. The data analysis methods employ paired-samples Tests, and a thematic analysis to identify issues raised in student comments. The results reveal that learners’ levels of user satisfaction with voice-based audio AOD and their ratings of its perceived usefulness confirm that it can be a satisfactory, effective, and preferable task for engaging learners in digitally-mediated four-skills practice. Another finding is that utilizing a voice-based audio module did not significantly alter learners’ course satisfaction when superseding a text-based module. These findings inform pedagogical practice with empirical insights regarding learners’ use of digital technologies, levels of acceptance, and DC preferences.

In the last few years there has been a proliferation of asynchronous online discussion forums which have opened up the possibilities for people to exchange ideas at any place and at any time. The literature has documented that asynchronous online discussion has the following desirable characteristics: 1) it may help enhance the participation of students who might be less willing to participate in traditional face-to-face classroom settings due to shyness; and 2) it has the potential to encourage more thoughtful responses since participants can take their own time in composing their thoughts. Nonetheless, despite the promise of asynchronous online discussion to promote rich learning experiences, students do not always make use of its potential. The purpose of this study was to examine how a group of Singapore students interacted with one another, as well as the types of thinking skills, critical or creative thinking, and levels of information processing they exhibited during an asynchronous online discussion. This was an attempt to develop certain guidelines that would help facilitate students' in-depth thinking and promote student-to-student interaction in an online discussion environment.*