Exploring Japanese students’ e-learning habits

Since 2010, both universities in which the authors teach have integrated PC-based e-learning or mobile learning programs into several English courses. Students’ online performances are evaluated and used in determining the grades for each course. The data accumulated over the years indicates both changing and unchanged e-learning habits among Japanese university students. By analyzing the data, coupled with information obtained from questionnaires, we conclude that while some e-learning habits remain unchanged, several new learning habits have emerged. The unchanged e-learning habits include: predominant use of the iPhone, which remains the most popular mobile learning tool; a deadline rush for completing e-learning tasks; preference for evening and night for e-learning; e-learning diligence, i.e. the frequency of participation and duration of participation remain the same.  The data also shows that in recent years some new trends have appeared in students’ e-learning: more students had experience with e-learning before entering university; fewer concerns about the cost of mobile phone Internet connection than previously.