DISTANCE TECHNOLOGIES IN TEACHING RUSSIAN AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE IN POLYLINGUAL EDUCATIONAL ENVIRONMENT

The article is focused on the use of distance technologies in teaching Russian as a foreign language in a multilingual educational environment. The main aim of the research is to demonstrate (in a comparative aspect) how two forms of distance learning: the software (platform) Moodle and eFront can become effective tools of teaching Russian to foreign university students. The e-learning course is based on the authentic material (a full-length cartoon made from a story by Edward Uspensky “Three from Prostokvashino”) divided into certain scenes and studied by the students through the system of specially designed language exercises. The novelty of the research lies in comparing the potential of the two systems: Moodle and eFront. The researchers present their own experience of working on the platforms online and off line (in extra-curricular activities), for stimulating students‟ independent cognitive activities, creating conditions for individual and team work. The conclusion is made that Moodle provides more opportunities but eFront can also become an effective tool in the interaction of teachers and students if a creative approach is applied