Anxiety has long been known to impact the processes of second language acquisition in salient ways (Horwitz, Horwitz & Cope, 1986; Dörnyei & Ryan, 2015). Anxiety is clearly one of the most important emotional issues that face L2 learners, and research is needed to understand its impact. The current study sought to investigate 2 Japanese university students’ emotive states through language learner diaries and semi-structured interviews. The duration of the study is one semester (5-6 weeks) for each participant, and the research specifically examines the influence of anxiety on the participants’ language learning experiences, the influence of key persons, and their overseas experiences. The results revealed that some key factors such as adequate comprehension and frequent interaction with foreigners were necessary to overcome their language learning anxiety. Attendees to the presentation will be able to gain insights into both positive and negative factors that can affect anxiety for L2 learners.

Teaching classes online has enormous benefit, though it comes with challenges. One important challenge includes how educators can implement assessment items for students in assorted and remote locations. In the case of final examinations, how can educators do so while maintaining test reliability? Using one well-known learning management system, and using a TOEIC-preparation course as a model, this presentation will outline an approach to effectively administering end-of-term examinations. After having formulated the appropriate assessment items, educators are encouraged to split examinations into meanable but separate parts specifically for online delivery. Educators must make use of question-order randomization and limit access times of their students. Importantly, educators must generate backup duplicates of the examinations in advance, backups that may be executed immediately as needed. As will be demonstrated, whether synchronous or asynchronous, observing such procedures and guidelines will ensure that both teachers and students are satisfied with the online examination experience.