Using blogs as learning media to reduce the loneliness of adult distance learners

Li Yi
Hohai University
Nanjing, China

Adult distance learners often experience feelings of loneliness which can contribute to their learning difficulties. Many previous research studies have indicated that psychological problems at various levels can arise during the process of learning and teaching, and that feelings of loneliness can discourage learners from emotional interaction with others and self-regulated learning. However, many of these studies focus on the learning effects on high school students, and there is little research on how loneliness affects adult learners' learning. Blogs, as one of the emerging learning media, can help learners to express themselves and interact with others. This paper examines how blogging can reduce loneliness in study and enhance learning.