Students’ Perceptions of L1 Use in Online EFL Classes?A Case Study of Beginner-Level Korean College Students

The purpose of this case study is to investigate Korean college students’ perceptions about the use L1 in a general English class conducted entirely online amid COVID-19 pandemic situation. More specifically, current aims better understand students held language choices made by instructor, including advantages and/or disadvantages using L1, as well their on how should be implemented EFL class. engineered instructor for were designated into three forms; and pre-recorded video lectures, English-only Zoom classes, Korean-only feedback via email. main source data was survey questionnaire consisting multiple choice questions, Likert-scale, open-ended questions. A total 69 mostly first-year taking course during fall semester 2021 responded. Descriptive statistics used analyze responses multiple-choice questions Likert scale ratings. Responses analyzed content analysis method. Analysis showed that hold prevailingly positive view inclusion classroom academic, managerial, affective purposes. Students believed especially helpful managerial academic purposes, it assisted them developing strong understanding delivered following flow lectures. also desire include such help ease anxiety cope with low confidence due feelings possessing inadequate skills clearly articulate themselves English. In regard social benefits viewed positively. However, views not high shown other cases they perceived, likely complexity interactions. To question what languages utilized mediums instruction class, commonly agreed primary language, but allowed some extent. Their reasons needing particularly learning environment discussed, which lack nonverbal cues instructor’s lectures absence immediate when faced difficulties. results indicate certainly holds role minds beginner-level students. findings suggest prudently, can act valuable scaffolding tool achieve goals an setting.