Abstract

COVID-19 has prompted many educational institutions to transition to virtual learning environments. One of the main issues in doing so has been the types of interactions that are possible online. Considering the importance of interaction in second language acquisition, it is relevant to understand how EFL teachers are facing the challenge of fostering interaction in virtual classrooms. The purpose of this study was twofold: First, we explored EFL Chilean university teachers' use of digital tools in their virtual classrooms to promote interaction. Secondly, we analyzed the obstacles they have faced when promoting interaction. To do this, we conducted a survey and a semi-structured interview with 10 EFL university teachers who have taught in traditional contexts as well as online. Our findings show that although EFL teachers have not had difficulties implementing different digital tools and platforms, interactions among learners are lacking. Students keeping microphones and cameras off has become a variable that reduces the possibility of knowing whether students are paying attention, monitoring their work, and setting up groupwork. An alarming finding was that this issue may increase EFL teachers' feeling of isolation in the virtual classroom. We suggest universities offer opportunities for teachers to systematize the digital tools they use as well as explicitly discuss how oral interaction is being scaffolded and motivated in the classroom, so that effective teaching practices can be shared and established.