The proliferation of computer technology and internet
access over the last decade has brought significant changes to
the mode of language learning. The advance of ICT enables
teachers or instructors to create a virtual learning
environment (VLE), and allow learners to study beyond the
limit of classroom walls.
This research is conducted with aims to explain the
current usage and practices of virtual learning at English
department. To be more specific, the aims are: 1) To
investigate the impacts of VLE on student learning; 2) To
find out whether VLE can enhance student motivation and
autonomy in learning; 3) To gain more information about the
benefits of VLE from students’ point of views; and 4) To
identify the constraints encountered by students in using
VLE. In this research VLE is limited to asynchronous
learning by using web tool Edmodo.
This research used a mixed-method approach. The
research participants were 80 students of fourth semeeter
English Department Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher
Training IAIN Antasari Banjarmasin. Data were collected
through questionnaire and documentations.
The findings reveal that there is a postive impact of the
use of Edmodo as VLE to student learning and student
motivation. To a certain extent, it also creates autonomy in
learning. However, due to some constraints particularly the
slow network connection, students prefer to use traditional
face-to-face learning mode than virtual learning mode.
Key words: virtual learning, Edmodo, impacts