This study explored Finnish students’ perceptions of online language
courses with the KiVAKO project (KiVAKO is an acronym in Finnish meaning
strengthening the language capital at higher education institutions). The
aim was to identify and make visible the aspects that need to be taken into
account in designing an effective online language course. The research
context included eight pilot courses created and implemented within the
framework of the KiVAKO project, which seeks to develop a nationwide online
language course offering. Language instruction is offered in Chinese,
Estonian, Finnish Sign Language, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean,
Portuguese, Russian, and Spanish on Common European Framework of Reference
(CEFR) levels A1-C1. The research data consisted of responses to a
post-course online questionnaire. The data were analysed according to a
qualitative content analysis method. The findings indicate that clearly
structured course design, relevant learning materials, appropriate teacher
activities, and aligned assignments enhanced the students’ positive learning
experiences.