Abstract:

The introduction of distance learning study programs represents an innovation in a country’s educational policy. In Serbia, distance education is still in its infancy. Although some higher education institutions have recognised its importance, few of them have included foreign languages in their distance study programs. This paper attempts to reply to the following questions: 1) Are foreign language teachers in Serbia technically and methodically trained for distance language teaching? 2) Are they satisfied with the achievements of their students who learn foreign language at a distance? 3) Do they support the introduction of new measures, and if so, which ones, in the aim of improving distance language learning? The conclusion drawn is that foreign language teachers in Serbia do not have sufficient knowledge and skills for the successful implementation of distance language study programs. Faculties in Serbia whose distance studies programs include foreign languages have a great responsibility in terms of the organisation of appropriate training for foreign language teachers. On the basis of the presented position, directions for improvements to current practice are proposed.

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