implications

As there is a great improvement in technology, the demand for innovative ways of delivering education is increasing and this has led to changes in learning and teaching methods. Distance education, which is so different from traditional education, consists of studying from home where students and teachers are physically distant while classroom learning is the type of education system in which the learners and the teachers work under one roof. Electronic means are used to keep students in touch with teachers, provide access to communication between students and bridge the gap and distribute educational material though distance learning programs. Both learning systems have their own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing between these two learning methods highly depends on learners’ requirements. In this paper, the researcher aims to discuss history and theories of distance learning, review literature on distant learning, state advantages and disadvantages of distance learning, express implications of the study to learners and teachers, and finally mention suggestions for improving distance learning.

Despite appealing notion of research based language teaching, we argue that scientific way of conducting research on English language teaching (ELT) is problematic since it ignores language learners’ subjectivity, instructors’ professionalism, practitioners’ culture and learning particularity. Positivists pedagogical arguments neglect the social nature of meaning making instructional practices and emphasize objectivity and measurability criteria which lead to instrumental rationality. A critical discourse analysis of practical arguments proposed in pedagogical implications section of empiricist research articles revealed that positivists assumptions manifest themselves as the rules and regulations of carrying out scientific research. These yardsticks give power to the neoliberal tendencies to present reasons as premises of arguments to restrict and control the agency of ELT teachers as well as to deprofessionalize them. Since there is a close affinity between this paradigm world views and neoliberal policies, positivists research articles lead to the domination of neoliberalism on TEFL discourse. This indicates the ideological function of the article genre and awareness of that is crucial for the sake of democratic and fair education.

Introduction and Objective: Loneliness, a subjective feeling of social isolation and disconnection, has emerged as a significant public health concern with wide-ranging implications. This review aims to comprehensively examine loneliness as a public health issue, exploring its associated health risks, underlying mechanisms, and potential interventions. Research Methodology: A systematic literature review was conducted using various databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, and Scopus. Studies investigating the health implications of loneliness, its underlying mechanisms, and potential interventions were included. Findings: The review highlights a strong association between loneliness and increased mortality risk, comparable to that of smoking and obesity. Loneliness is also linked to a heightened risk of various physical and mental health problems, including cardiovascular disease, dementia, depression, and anxiety. The underlying mechanisms linking loneliness to poor health outcomes involve dysregulation of the stress response system, impaired immune function, and unhealthy lifestyle behaviors. Interventions targeting social connection and support have shown promise in reducing loneliness and improving health outcomes. Discussion and Conclusion: Loneliness represents a significant public health challenge with serious consequences for individuals and society. Addressing loneliness requires a multi-faceted approach encompassing public awareness campaigns, community-based interventions, and healthcare provider training. Future research should focus on identifying effective interventions and tailoring them to diverse populations. It is imperative to recognize loneliness as a public health priority and implement comprehensive strategies to promote social connection and well-being.