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.

This study utilized a longitudinal data collection to examine online factors of digital multimodal composing (DMC) preference and measure learner course satisfaction with digital composing modes in an online EFL communication course. The purpose of this research was to involve learners in a process of online, interactive, and multimodal curricular design during emergency remote learning due to the coronavirus pandemic. Innovative online technologies such as a new learning management system and digital educational components were implemented and used to quantitatively examine learners’ acceptance of technology. Korean learner preferences for textual and audio modes of DMC were indicated by Relative Advantage, Perceived Usefulness, and User Satisfaction factors. These factors also indicated an aversion to video-based DMC including video recordings and video responses as well as moderate concern for video conferencing. Qualitative findings revealed student concern for the constructs of Ease of Use and Using Video Modalities when transitioning to new online learning technologies.