Online learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) face many unique issues in choosing which program to study. The present paper begins with a review of criteria developed previously, and reassesses these based on subsequent pedagogical and technological innovations, particularly the evolution of Web 2.0 tools and “communicative language teaching” approaches. A new set of criteria were then applied to programs reviewed previously and to newer courses. These exposed ongoing problems of providers failing to adopt newer approaches despite most being available at no cost, a lack of standards, best practice models and external accreditation, and neglect in establishing a sense of community through enhanced student-teacher and student-student communication, which in turn impacts student motivation and the sense of isolation. The author suggests that more research effort it needed to encourage industry players to move forward, and to reassure learners of the quality and value for money of programs they may choose to complete.

4. various levels

5. specialised programs

6. assessment

7. back-up teacher

8. quality materials

9. enough lessons

10. basic computer needs

14. some encouraging signs

23. Read my full paper “Evaluating Online EFL Courses: The Learners’ Dilemma” by clicking on this link: http://db.tt/Lddbh9z

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