digitalization in language learning in the wake of covid 19: lessons learned and ways forward

It is claimed that covid-19 caused the worst shock to global education and learning in recorded history. the crisis illustrated the woefully under prepared world of education for implementation of remote learning programs. as the pandemic has evolved, so too have education responses. research has indicated that covid-19 could be seen as the catalyst for the adoption and increasing use of digitalization in language education in support of remote learning. the current case study was done to explore the challenges and opportunities in the digitalization of language learning in the light of covid-19. it was realized that the digitally mediated culture of virtual learning can help boost the role of teachers and learners in terms of cooperation, investment in learning, interactive positioning and co-construction of knowledge. on the other hand, the range of varied semiotic resources available online, fluid shifts in language choice, stance and style coupled with online modes of socialization provide new contexts which can blur the boundaries between online and offline reality. in such potentially challenging situations, learners are able to texulaize themselves and perform carefully managed practices of identity to project a self of their choosing. to act safely and responsibly in digital environments, literacy in digital identity management is critically needed. undistributed leadership and power, inequities and discrimination against pupils because of their lack of access to computers or the internet are just some telling examples of disruptive opportunities. the lessons learned can be passed on to language education experts to paint a more comprehensive picture for future prospect of digitalization in this field of study.