Difficulties in Chinese Virtual Learning Environment for Higher Education: An Approach towards Man-Machine-Environment System

Abstract

The virtual learning environment (VLE) began relatively late in China but is now thriving. Yet, many scholars claim that the induction of VLE in Chinese education does not increase learning effectiveness, especially in the e-learning program and management. Thus, a more comprehensive picture of the VLE in China should be generated, including the perspectives and needs of students. Accordingly, the paper aims to explore the students’ concerns and preferences on Chinese VLE, so as to rebuild the communicative model between the instructors and learners within VLE. Using a survey as the research method, 826 valid samples of students' views are collected. Through the statistical analysis, the reliability of data are examined, and the weights of the indexes are determined. The findings indicate specific issues of the Chinese virtual learning environment in higher education. Based on the diagnosed issues, several practical suggestions for reconstructing the Chinese VLE are proposed.