Abstract
<p><em>This study focuses on exploring the benefits perceived by Saudi English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students of integrating Information and Communication Technology (ICT) into English learning and teaching. It also aims to determine their use of ICT and their attitudes to its use in learning and teaching. Data were collected through a questionnaire survey from 120 female preparatory year students studying at an English Language Institute (ELI) at a University in Saudi Arabia. The quantitative data obtained were analysed through statistical descriptive analysis. The findings of the study reveal positive attitudes among students on the use of ICT in English learning and teaching. The majority of the students used ICT to access English learning resources to learn English. Students also perceived ICT as a useful tool that could be used to access authentic materials. In addition, students strongly agreed that ICT can improve their English learning and helps increase learning autonomy. The findings of the study were discussed and compared with the findings of related literature. This study provides valuable insights on how students perceive ICT as a tool of learning and teaching that can help provide a better English learning experience. Moreover, this study contributes to the research area of ICT use in EFL learning in the Arab higher education context. </em></p>
Highlights
Nowadays, there is widespread use of technology in all life aspects, including education
These factors include the availability of computers, a reliable internet connection, technical support, well equipped labs and classrooms, training in the use of Information and communication technology (ICT), and teachers and learners having a positive attitude to the integration of ICT in learning
This study concluded that English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students attending a Saudi university perceive ICT to be a useful tool to learning English
Summary
There is widespread use of technology in all life aspects, including education. To the researcher’s best knowledge there are very few studies that explore EFL learners’ attitudes to the use of ICT in English language learning and teaching in the Saudi higher education context. To make the most of ICT in language learning depends on certain factors, which have been identified in the literature, must be in place (e.g., Al-Mahrooqi & Troudi, 2014; Albugami & Ahmed, 2015; Gamlo, 2014; Li & Walsh, 2011; Liu, 2009) These factors include the availability of computers, a reliable internet connection, technical support, well equipped labs and classrooms, training in the use of ICT, and teachers and learners having a positive attitude to the integration of ICT in learning. It is the teachers’ role to encourage students to use ICT outside the classroom and guide them to find English teaching material online
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