Breaking the mold: a university case study of successful english language online teaching without textbooks

This case study examines the viability of teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) online synchronously without textbooks. Likewise, a pilot course conducted from May to September at the Language Institute from Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas (UFA-ESPE) in Ecuador assessed this approach. The current research aimed to investigate the feasibility of this textbook-free, synchronously online ESL teaching method. Employing a one-group, post-test only design, with a qualitative approach and a descriptive scope, the study assessed student engagement, learning outcomes, and promising benefits. Of twenty-one students who agreed to be part of this study in the super intensive course, fourteen approved successfully a mock A2 Key exam, demonstrating potential results. The course fostered a dynamic and learner-centered environment, suggesting alternative approaches for online ESL education without utilizing textbooks. However, limitations like sample size and the absence of a control group suggest further research for conclusive evidence.