English Competence Research Articles

The Influence of Grammarly Application to Improve Students' Writing Skills in Recount Text

Writing proficiency in English is crucial for students, yet errors often occur in their written narratives. This study investigated how the use of Grammarly Application can enhance students' narrative texts. Employing an experimental quantitative research design, the study conducted random sampling among students from a State Middle School in Batubara. The experimental group comprised 31 students who used Grammarly Application, while the control group had 31 students without access to the tool. Pre- and post-tests using writing samples were employed to collect data. The independent sample T-test was utilized to test the hypothesis that Grammarly impacts students' writing skills, yielding a significant result of 0.000 < 0.05. These findings reject the null hypothesis (Ho) and support the alternative hypothesis (Ha), indicating that Grammarly Application effectively improved students' narrative writing abilities. This study suggested that teachers can utilize Grammarly Application to enhance English writing instruction, enabling students to self-assess and revise their written work more effectively. Grammarly facilitates teachers' provision of constructive feedback and correction on students' writing, thereby enhancing overall writing proficiency in English classrooms. In addition to facilitating self-assessment and revision, Grammarly empowers students with instant feedback on grammar, style, and clarity, fostering a deeper understanding of English language conventions. This automated assistance allows teachers to focus more on higher-order writing skills, such as organization and argumentation, further enriching the learning experience and improving students' overall writing competence in English

An Analysis of Grammatical Errors in Students' English Compositions

Grammatical errors are common in students' writing and, to some extent, hinder effective communication. Understanding the nature and frequency of these errors can help teachers and students improve their writing skills. As the last of the five skills, English writing can best reflect the comprehensive ability of English learners, while writing teaching has always been a weak link in English teaching. This paper mainly analyzes the grammatical errors in students' English compositions, identifies and analyzes common grammatical errors in students' English compositions through relevant methods such as literature analysis, and proposes relevant countermeasures and suggestions for the current situation of students' English writing learning and teaching based on these found problems. To improve students' pragmatic competence in English and teachers' attention to pragmatic knowledge competence.

A Thesis Developing Interactive E-Flipbook Module in Teaching Reading Text to the Tenth Grade Students at SMAN 4 Lubuklinggau

Reading is an important skill for students learning English, whether as a second language or a foreign language. Reading still plays a big role and is an essential tool for conveying meaning and information through text. For foreign language learners, reading in English is not an easy task because reading in English is complex and it is difficult to understand the meaning of sentences. Understanding is necessary to understand the meaning and obtain the information conveyed by the author. This happen because the language system of English is different from the students' native language. Hasibuan et al (2021) stated that Reading is an active process, it involves interpreting passages, not just receiving a message. It is reasonable for reading is one of the basic ways of acquiring information. Because when the students have a good competence in reading English, it will help them to obtain and enrich their knowledge.

Grammar Express Unleashed: A Microlearning Hub Approach to Least Learned English 7 Competencies

The study employed a mixed-method developmental approach to design a learning hub imbued with microlearning to address the least learned competencies in English 7. The least learned competencies were identified by considering existing test results in the locale of the researcher, which were supported by the findings of existing studies in the literature through a systematic review. The researcher assumed the roles of content creator and curator and identified relevant microlearning materials available for access. Experts validated the quality of the identified learning content through an adopted questionnaire. Afterwards, the researcher designed the Grammar Express. ICT experts were asked to validate the platform using an adapted rubric to determine whether it is suitable as a learning website. An adapted questionnaire was used to measure the level of acceptance of Grammar Express by language teachers. Meanwhile, an adapted questionnaire was used to evaluate the level of usability of the platform as perceived by the students. Based on the findings, the respondents believe that Grammar Express is useful since it offers tangible benefits and can enhance instruction. Similarly, in terms of perceived ease of use, Grammar Express requires less effort to learn and utilize. In addition, there is a strong positive attitude to incorporate Grammar Express in language teaching. Furthermore, there is a strong intention to use Grammar Express, which indicates a high level of acceptance and enthusiasm for the platform. In terms of usability, there is a strong inclination toward frequent use and displayed confidence in navigating the platform independently.

Enhancing University Students’ English Competence for Communication through the Whole Language Approach

This research consisted of 4 objectives. They were to 1) examine the English listening and speaking competence of NRRU students, 2) compare NRRU University students’ English listening and speaking competence scores before and after the treatment with the criterion of 70%, 3)examine English reading and writing competence of NRRU students, and 4)compare NRRU University students’ English reading and writing competence scores before and after the treatment with the criterion of 70%. The population in this study consisted of 100 learners from Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University. Samples consisted of 50 learners from Nakhon Ratchasima Rajabhat University. Samples were selected through purposive sampling random. Six weeks were spent on this research. The instruments were (1) the questionnaire related to students’ problems with English instruction, (2) classroom observation, (3) a semi-structured interview, and (4) an English-speaking ability test. The scores of English competence for communication through the Whole Language Approach were analyzed and interpreted statistically in terms of mean (xˉ), standard deviation (S.D.), and t-test (pre-test and post-test) with the criterion of 70%.The study results showed that most students scored much higher on the English reading, writing, listening, and speaking competence post-test than on the English competency pre-test. Students’ post-test English reading, writing, listening, and speaking competency scores were substantially higher than the threshold of 70% at the .05 level.

The Student Intersction In Learning English

Through the use of instructional games, this study investigates the function of student engagement in the acquisition of the English language. This study uses a combination of in-depth interviews, thematic analysis, and direct observation along with qualitative research methodologies to investigate the dynamics of student interaction in a game-based learning environment. The findings demonstrated that the usage of games greatly enhanced language proficiency, student engagement, and communication abilities. During the game sessions, there was a 40% rise in the use of new vocabulary and a 60% increase in English verbal contact. Furthermore, 80% of groups demonstrated greater levels of cooperation, and 75% of students actively participated in class. The use of mother tongue has decreased by 30% as well. This study shows that game-based learning has significant potential to enhance students' linguistic competency and collaborative skills in learning English, despite obstacles like uneven participation and other distractions. The significance of choosing games that are suitable, providing scaffolding, managing the classroom well, and incorporating formative assessment strategies are all practical implications for educators.

Factors influencing research productivity among Syrian medical professionals amidst conflict: a case-control study

BackgroundMedical research productivity is globally increasing, with a lagging progress in third-world countries due to significant challenges, including inadequate training and brain drain. Syria had been showing a slow upward trend until the war broke out and severely hindered academic growth and productivity. A deeper understanding of the factors influencing research productivity in this context are fundamental to guide educational policies and resource allocation. Previous cross-sectional studies that evaluated the perspectives of Syrian academics on the issue were limited by the small sample size of published healthcare workers, making it difficult to identify the factors that enabled them to pursue research.MethodsTo address this challenge, we employed a case-control design. We isolated published early-career Syrian healthcare workers and compared their characteristics and perceptions to unpublished matched controls. Authors in the fields of medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy affiliated with any Syrian University were identified through an extensive search of PubMed and Google Scholar.These authors were invited to complete a questionnaire that covered participants’ research contributions, alongside their self-assessed knowledge, attitudes, and barriers towards research. The questionnaire was publicly published to recruit an equal sample of matching controls, with half consisting of unpublished researchers and the other half of participants without prior research contributions.ResultsSix-hundred-sixteen participants were recruited. Their knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers explained 46% and 34% of the variability in research involvement and publication, respectively (P < 0.001). Getting involved in and publishing research studies associated with higher research-related knowledge and attitudes (P < 0.001). Respondents’ assessment of research-related barriers and their academic scores did not differ between cases and controls. Superior research-related knowledge and attitudes were associated with male gender, higher English competency, and better internet connectivity. Meanwhile, extracurricular training and mentors’ support were associated with more positive research-related attitudes and less perceived barriers.ConclusionsResearch productivity of medical professionals in Syria exhibits a positive correlation with their knowledge and favorable attitudes towards medical research. Noteworthy, the demographic variations are linked to disparities in research-related knowledge and motivation. In conclusion, these results suggest a potential avenue for enhancement through concentrated efforts on improving extracurricular training interventions and mentors’ support.

Performing region-specific tasks does not improve lower extremity patient-reported outcome scores

BackgroundPatient-reported outcome measures quantify outcomes from patients’ perspective with validated instruments. QuickDASH (Quick Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand, an upper extremity PROM) scores improve after completing instrument tasks, suggesting patient-reported outcome results can be modified. We hypothesized that performing lower extremity tasks on the knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score for joint reconstruction (KOOS-JR) and hip disability and osteoarthritis outcome score for joint reconstruction (HOOS-JR) instruments would similarly improve the scores.MethodsForty seven hip and 62 knee osteoarthritis patients presenting to a suburban academic center outpatient osteoarthritis and joint replacement clinic were enrolled and randomized to an intervention or a control group. Inclusion criteria were age over 18 years and English competency. Patients completed a HOOS-JR or KOOS-JR instrument, completed tasks similar to those of the instrument (intervention) or the QuickDASH (control), and then repeated instruments again. Paired and unpaired t-tests were used to compare the intervention and control group scores before and after tasks.ResultsThere was no significant difference in total or individual scores after task completion compared to baseline in either the HOOS-JR or the KOOS-JR groups. There was no significant difference in the scores between the intervention or control groups.ConclusionsDisability may be less modifiable in the lower extremity than in the upper extremity, perhaps because upper extremity activities are more easily compensated by the contralateral limb, or because lower extremity activities are more frequent. Thorough evaluation of factors influencing patient-reported outcome measures is necessary before their extensive application to quality control and reimbursement models.

Enhancing English Speaking Competence for Vocational Students: Descriptive Qualitative Analysis

This research explores the critical need for speaking skills and competencies in English in the context of vocational education. Through a comprehensive exploration of language skills, linguistics and literature, human resource management, and the role of learning organizations, this study provides an in-depth understanding of the important role of literacy in English in vocational education. The findings reveal that English proficiency is not just an advantage but an absolute necessity for vocational students in today's increasingly connected world. English serves as a gateway to a wide range of global information, collaboration with international peers, and participation in a wider professional network. Effective communication in English is now a prerequisite in the job market, with recruiters in various industries looking for candidates who have strong English-speaking skills. In addition, the study emphasizes that the linguistic and literary dimensions in English proficiency not only deepen communication skills but also increase cultural awareness. By understanding the nuances of language, vocational students can navigate a diverse professional environment with cultural sensitivities, which is an invaluable trait in the global world of work. Learner organizations play an important role as champions of change, influencing curriculum development and resource allocation to support English language education for vocational students

The Imperative Need for Writing Skills and Competence in English for Vocational Learners: A Comprehensive Literature Review

The focus of this research includes aspects of language, linguistics, and literature skills, as well as their impact on human resource management and public organizations. Through qualitative descriptive analysis methods, this study reveals that language skills, including grammar, vocabulary, and syntax, are the main foundation of writing competence. The results of this study show that linguistics and exposure to literature play an important role in developing writing excellence. Linguistic principles enrich students' understanding of sentence structure and coherence, while exposure to literature stimulates creativity and enriches writing styles. The integration of these components into the vocational curriculum is a practical strategy to strengthen overall writing skills. In addition, this study highlights the importance of writing competence in the context of human resource management. Students with strong writing skills are better equipped to make convincing job applications and communicate effectively in the context of human resource management. This demonstrates the need for vocational institutions to work with career services to provide the guidance and resources needed by students to succeed in HR-related communication. This research confirms that clear and effective written communication is very important in public organizations. Good writing skills ensure transparency, accountability, and accessibility of information within this organization.

Comparing Intercultural Competence in Lower Secondary English and French Classrooms in Norway: An Overview Study

The purpose of this study is to compare and analyze evidence of intercultural competence across 22 lower secondary English-as-a-second-language and French-as-a-foreign-language classrooms in Norway based on video observations of naturally occurring instruction. We recorded minimum four consecutive lessons in each classroom across two school years, totaling 90 lessons. Research on intercultural competence in second and foreign language classrooms has involved analyses of curricula, textbooks, literary texts in class, and intervention studies, but few scholars have observed naturally occurring instruction. Even fewer studies have used video observations to compare language subjects. This study aims to fill this gap by providing an overview of how intercultural competence is addressed in English and French instruction and identifying similarities and differences between the two subjects. Using the model elaborated in the Reference Framework of Competences for Democratic Culture (RFCDC) as an analytical lens, we found that the model’s area knowledge and critical understanding was most prominent in both subjects and that cultural stereotypes both occurred and were challenged by students across subjects. However, we found more, and more varied, evidence of intercultural competence in the English classrooms, where topics were studied in-depth, whereas the French classes often studied an array of topics more superficially.

THE VOICE OF ELT STUDENTS AT ISLAMIC COLLEGE ON ACADEMIC LIFE

Research shows that student voice might be an influencing factor in the future transformation and innovation of English language teaching (ELT). The voice has long been believed to be an instrument that could provide ELT practitioners and policymakers with meaningful feedback for the betterment of curricula, materials, and classroom practices. However, there are limited discussions exploring ELT student voice in such particular educational contexts as Islamic colleges. This article aims to contribute to our understanding of that rarely discussed voice with a particular focus on: (a) the students‟ best experience as English education students at an Islamic college; (b) the students‟ perceptions related to dress code and exams; and (3) the students‟ self- assessment of English language skills. This study presents a survey study on 278 students in the English language education department at an Islamic college in Lampung province, Indonesia. The data are drawn from a survey consisting of open-ended questions distributed to the respondents at the end of the semester. Data analysis was conducted qualitatively, ranging from preparing and organizing the data to interpreting the meaning of the data in line with the research questions and theoretical review. The findings reveal that among the students' best experiences were the Islamic atmosphere, affordable tuition fees, religious education, professional lecturers, and scholarship availability. The majority of students agreed with the dress code regulation and had problems with cheating on the final examinations. The findings also show that more than half of the respondents are not sure about their English competency. This study offers important implications for English teacher education in Islamic educational contexts.

A longitudinal test of Mexican-origin teen mothers' cultural characteristics and children's Spanish vocabulary via mothers' Spanish language use.

The present study examined whether teen mothers' adaptive cultural characteristics (i.e., familism values, language competency pressures, and involvement in Mexican culture and U.S. mainstream culture) when children were 3 years old (i.e., Wave 4; W4) informed mothers' Spanish language use with their children when children were 4 years old (W5) and, in turn, children's subsequent Spanish receptive vocabulary when children were 5 years old (W6). The present study included 204 Mexican-origin children (58% male) and their mothers who entered parenthood during adolescence (M = 16.24, SD = .99 at W1). Five mediational processes were significant, such that mothers' higher familism values (i.e., emphasizing family support and obligations), Spanish competency pressure (i.e., stress associated with Spanish language competency), and involvement in U.S. mainstream culture at W4 were associated with mothers' lower Spanish language use with children at W5 and, in turn, children's lower levels of Spanish receptive vocabulary at W6. Mothers' greater involvement in Mexican culture and English competency pressure (i.e., stress associated with English language competency) at W4 were associated with mothers' greater Spanish language use with children at W5 and, in turn, children's greater Spanish receptive vocabulary at W6. Additionally, mothers' greater involvement in U.S. mainstream culture at W4 was directly associated with children's lower Spanish language abilities at W6. Findings highlight the importance of the family context in Mexican-origin children's Spanish language skills over time. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Bahasa Inggris sebagai Katalis Perubahan: Memberdayakan Mahasiswa Manajemen Indonesia untuk Mendorong Pertumbuhan Ekonomi Berkelanjutan

This classroom action research aimed to explore an innovative approach to teaching English that specifically targets the development of communication skills required for implementing sustainable business strategies. The study was conducted at the Sekolah Tinggi Ilmu Ekonomi Pariwisata Indonesia (STIEPARI) Semarang, involving 30 management students. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, collecting data through surveys, interviews, classroom observations, and English proficiency tests. The findings revealed that the innovative teaching method, which integrated sustainability concepts and focused on developing relevant business communication skills, effectively enhanced students' English competence and understanding of applying sustainability concepts in business. The increased English proficiency positively impacted students' comprehension and ability to implement sustainability principles in business contexts. The study concludes that integrating sustainability concepts into English language learning for business purposes is an effective strategy for developing management students' competencies as change agents in promoting sustainable business practices. Recommendations for future research include expanding the sample, conducting longitudinal studies, exploring teachers' perspectives, and collaborating between business management academics and English language experts.

Listening Competence and Comprehension in English for Vocational Learners: Implications for Workforce Readiness and Organizational Success

Listening Competence and Comprehension in English for Vocational Learners: Implications for Workforce Readiness and Organizational Success

Factors influencing intercultural competences of hospital workers for multicultural patients in South Korea.

This study aims to assess the intercultural competence of general hospital workers in South Korea by examining their understanding of cultural diversity in healthcare and to identify factors influencing their intercultural competence. A cross-institutional survey was conducted with 439 participants from four South Korean general hospitals, employing inferential statistics such as one-way Analysis of Variance, Mann-Whitney U, and Kruskal-Wallis test followed by post-hoc, and multiple linear regression analyses. While 85% (n = 362) of participants acknowledged the significance of multiculturalism in Korean society, only 11% (n = 49) felt competent in treating multicultural patients. Additionally, 72% (n = 315) experienced significant linguistic difficulties in medical communication. Multiple regression analysis identified advanced English competency, multicultural training experiences, and peer support with organizational awareness of multicultural importance as significant positive contributors to intercultural competence. Despite recognizing the importance of multiculturalism, general hospital workers face significant language barriers and low self-efficacy in providing care to multicultural patients. To address these challenges, hospitals should designate resident translators for culturally appropriate communication. Furthermore, a tri-tiered training approach is proposed to enhance the five domains of intercultural competence among general hospital workers in Korea, including overarching multicultural training, occupation-specific courses, and long-term managerial programs aimed at managing cultural diversity effectively in healthcare settings.

Factors Influencing the English Language Competency of Filipino University Students

This study explores the factors influencing English competency among Filipino university students to develop effective strategies for improvement using Descriptive- Qualitative Design. Findings indicate that the factors that influenced the students’ English competency are their commitment to improvement, aspirations to become future teachers, and engagement in hobbies; while the negative factors include cognitive processing difficulties, external determinants, and affective factors. To overcome the challenges in English competency, educators should foster a supportive learning environment, reduce anxiety by managing cognitive load, implement activities that build confidence, and strengthen students' self-belief. This holistic approach can enhance students' attitudes towards language learning and improve their English competency.

Overcoming Shyness and Bullying in EFL Classrooms: Strategies for Promoting Communicative Competence among Iraqi Learners

The improvement of communicative competence in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) is essential for Iraqi learners to involve effectively in personal, academic, and professional contexts. However, learners often face obstacles like shyness and bullying that could hinder their language acquisition and participation in classroom activities. This research examines strategies to overcome those obstacles and endorse a supportive learning environment that nurtures communicative capability amongst Iraqi EFL learners. Through a wide-ranging literature review, the study inspects theoretical perspectives from the affective filter hypothesis, sociocultural theory, and motivational backgrounds to comprehend the multidimensional factors influencing language learning practices. The conceptual model offered integrates individual factors (shyness, anxiety, motivation), social features (bullying, peer relationships, classroom climate), and pedagogical methods to explore their relationship in developing communicative competence. The research theorizes that targeted interventions, like affective strategies, anti-bullying programs, and supportive learning techniques, can alleviate the negative impacts of shyness and bullying, thereby enhancing learners' communicative capabilities. The findings have important implications for EFL teaching practices in Iraq, highlighting the importance of creating inclusive classrooms, applying communicative language teaching approaches, cultivating peer support, and addressing socio-cultural effects. Eventually, this study contributes to the body of knowledge on endorsing communicative competence and presents applied references for educators, policymakers, and shareholders in the arena of EFL education in Iraq.

Pelatihan Bahasa Inggris untuk Guru dan Staff SMP Darul Ulum 1 Peterongan Jombang

Proficiency in English is vital for participation in the global knowledge economy, providing access to information, education, and technological advancements. Recognizing this, SMP Darul Ulum 1 Peterongan Jombang collaborated with Unipdu Jombang to organize an English training program for its teachers and staff. This program aimed to enhance participants' English competency to deliver effective instruction and foster a conducive learning environment. The month-long program employed interactive methodologies covering grammar, vocabulary, phonetics, teaching methodology, and technology integration. Results show significant improvement in participants' English skills, with implications for teaching effectiveness and student outcomes. The success of this program elevates the school's reputation and competitiveness in providing quality education. Ongoing professional development and a supportive English environment are recommended for sustained improvement.

English language learning anxiety and academic burnout in Chinese freshmen: a chain mediating approach.

The university stage is critical for cultivating and enhancing students' practical English proficiency, encompassing listening, speaking, reading, writing, and translation skills. Losing interest in English studies at this stage not only hampers the development of practical English competence but also has a negative impact on future employment and personal growth. This study aimed to explore to how English language learning anxiety (ELLA) affects academic burnout (AB) of freshman in China and explores the role of academic peer support (APS) and academic self-efficacy (ASE) in the relationship between the two. The study involved 1,355 college students who completed English Language Learning Anxiety Scale, the English Academic burnout Scale, Academic Peer Relationship Scale, the Academic Self-efficacy Scale. AB was significantly impacted by ELLA. ELLA and AB were mediated by ASE. Another factor that acted as a mediator between ELLA and AB was APS. ELLA and AB were mediated by a chain reaction involving ASE and APS. The chain mediation model validated in this study, providing valuable insights into the effects of freshmen's ELLA on AB in China, as well as practical insights into the prevention and intervention of ELLA and AB in other current college students.