Improving EFL learners’ English skills through computer-mediated language strategy

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative research study aims to seek the academic potentials of digital storytelling as an English learning material in an EFL elementary school class in Korea. In order to find out the benefits and challenges of digital storytelling in EFL class, a qualitative research method was used, and research was conducted for 12 week in a rural elementary school. Digital storytelling technique was selected and utilized in the after-school English class, as main teaching and learning tool. Out of 31 students in a class, 10 students were chosen as focal participants. During the research period, student’s reflective self-evaluation log, teacher’s lecture report, classroom observation and in/formal interviews with focal students and the teacher were also collected to figure out the factors which gave an influence to students and the teacher. After analyzing all the data in a qualitative way, the results showed that participants indicated overall improvement in English learning in terms of reading, writing, listening and speaking. In addition to English proficiency, the learning attitude and motivation toward English learning was elevated, followed by the increase of their critical, creative thinking, and digital literacy skills.