English As A Foreign Language Classes Research Articles

Second language learning motivation, life-long learning and 21st century skills in today's globalized world: A validation study

Knowledge production in today’s world presupposes skills necessary for successful knowledge construction and knowledge update. Such skills include English as a foreign language (EFL), life-long learning and 21st century skills. This study presents a quantitative pilot study (N=200) that examines the relationship between EFL learning motivation, communication in L1 and L2, some aspects of life-long learning and certain 21st century skills. The paper seeks to explore what this relationship is like and in what way these factors are connected and how they potentially impact one another. The study presents the validation of the instrument used for the research, and reports some of the preliminary findings. Based on the results, it is concluded that the ideal L2 self is a predictor of L2 learning motivation, willingness to use dictionaries and cooperation during EFL classes. The results also indicate that participants exhibit the necessary ICT and L1 skills for their studies of EFL, and positively relate to communicative situations with native and non-native speakers of English.

Formative Assessment in K-12 English as Foreign Language Education: A Systematic Review

The surge of globalisation and the recognition of English as a lingua franca have propelled the worldwide advancement of English as a foreign language (EFL) education. Formative assessment can support the English language teaching and learning in classroom settings. This systematic review critically analyses recent research on formative assessment within K-12 EFL education, underscoring its substantial role in enhancing teaching efficacy and student outcomes. Specifically, it addresses three key aspects: the beliefs, perceptions and literacy of teachers and students regarding formative assessment, the effectiveness of different assessment practices on learners’ performance and the contextual challenges in implementing these strategies. A comprehensive analysis of qualitative and quantitative studies reveals that the attitudes of teachers and students considerably influence the effectiveness of formative assessment. Innovative methods, such as technology-assisted and peer assessments, show promise in enhancing learner outcomes. However, the education system and cultural contexts present persistent challenges in implementing formative assessment in EFL classes. The findings highlight the importance of ensuring professional training for educators and raising student awareness regarding the benefits of formative assessment. This study emphasises the need for aligning adaptable assessment practices with diverse educational environments and calls for a closer integration of theoretical and practical approaches in EFL education. Moreover, this review provides valuable insights into formative assessment strategies in EFL learning, offering guidance for educators, policymakers and stakeholders in language education.

Educational Innovation: Teacher- and Student-Made Videos to Enhance English Proficiency at University Level

In the context of English as a foreign language (EFL) education, the efficacy of various instructional approaches has been a subject of ongoing concern. Traditional teacher-led methods have been challenged by the emergence of video-based instruction, raising questions about which approach yields the more effective learning outcomes. This study investigated the impact of student- and teacher-made video implementation versus traditional teacher-led methods on EFL class outcomes. Standardized tests were used to assess the English proficiency levels of 214 students who registered for EFL classes in a higher education institution in Cuenca, Ecuador. A quantitative methodology with quasi-experimental type and Solomon four-group design was applied to examine the effects of these different instructional approaches, comparing groups both with and without pre-tests. The students were organized into groups at random. The results were arranged into two sections, one comparing post-test scores and the other focusing on mean differences among those who experienced both pre-test and post-test assessments. Notably, statistically significant differences were observed in post-test evaluations within the groups that received pre-tests, indicating that it influenced post-test outcomes. However, the most important finding was that the intervention group had a better mean difference in English level than the control group. The findings highlight the importance of considering pre-tests when designing effective instructional strategies and suggest further investigation into the dynamics of video-based versus teacher-led instruction in EFL education.

Exploring novel approaches to digital self-regulated learning: a study on the use of mobile applications among Polish and Turkish EFL pre-service teachers

AbstractThis study explores the digital self-regulatory practices of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) pre-service teachers via mobile applications in the post-pandemic era. The research is motivated by the need to address the absence of literature on the self-regulatory learning behaviours of EFL pre-service teachers in the aftermath of the pandemic-induced shift to online learning. The study participants were Polish and Turkish EFL students aged between 19 and 23, enrolled at state universities in Poland and Turkey. A validated online survey tool was developed and utilised for data collection based on the piloting phase of the study. The survey employed a combination of multiple-choice and 5-point Likert scale questions to examine participants’ interaction with different types of self-regulated applications after the pandemic. The findings revealed that Duolingo was the most widely used application. This underscored the importance of listening as the most frequently used language skill. The study also revealed a shift in learning patterns among participants following the pandemic as evidenced by the technologies available. Overall, the main findings of this study may serve as significant impetus for further research on pandemic-related changes in digital self-regulated learning practices among EFL learners globally. The results of the study might find broad implications for example for development of a new generation of MOOCs responding various needs of learners as well as incorporating elements of self-regulation into the traditional EFL class to increase its efficiency.

Utilizing Computer and Technological Devices to Improve the Performance of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Students: A Case Study of Secondary Schools in Al-Hasaheisa Locality, Gezira State, Sudan

Purpose: This study aims to examine the impact of technology integration in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classes on learners' motivation and performance. It also seeks to provide training for EFL teachers to effectively incorporate technology into their instructional practices.
 Methodology: The research utilizes experimental and descriptive-analytical methods, involving 75 participants, including EFL students and teachers from secondary schools in Al-Hasaheisa Locality, Gezira State, Sudan. Data collection involves questionnaires and pre-post-tests administered to both teachers and students. The collected data is analyzed using the SPSS program.
 Findings: The study reveals that the use of technology in EFL classes facilitates English language teaching and learning. Despite the high internet costs in Sudan, EFL students actively engage in online collaboration activities. However, it is highlighted that nearly half of the EFL teachers lack sufficient training to effectively utilize the available computers and technological devices. The study emphasizes that EFL students display motivation to learn through computer usage, both inside and outside the classroom. Additionally, technology enables EFL learners to engage in computer-based assignments, practice problem-solving and critical thinking through e-activities, and improve their overall performance. Furthermore, utilizing technology allows teachers to provide a broader range of materials and information.
 Unique Contributions to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study recommends the integration of information and communication technology (ICT) in the EFL teaching and learning process. It emphasizes the need for comprehensive training programs to enhance EFL teachers' proficiency in effectively employing technology in their instructional practices.

The Correlation Between the Use of Online Learning Platforms and Undergraduate Students’ Self-Efficacy

Background: Self-efficacy and the use of learning activities in online learning platforms have been extensively researched recently and are considered factors of online learning success. However, little research empirically seeks the correlation between those variables, including in English as a foreign language (EFL) online classes. Purpose: To investigate whether there is a significant correlation between the use of online learning platforms and EFL students' self-efficacy in online learning in English classes. Method: This quantitative research used two questionnaires, i.e., the Online Learning Platform Questionnaire (OLPQ) and the Self-Efficacy Questionnaire for Online Learning (SeQoL). The use of online learning platforms measured in this study includes independent learning, virtual meetings, forum discussion, collaborative learning, and assessment; meanwhile, self-efficacy includes course completion, social interaction, academic interaction, interaction with lecturers, and the use of LMS. The sample of this research was 133 EFL students from three universities in Indonesia. The data was analyzed using Spearman's correlation at the significance level of 0.05. Results: The results show that independent learning, collaborative learning, and forum discussion correlate with most constructs of self-efficacy. Meanwhile, the results indicate no correlation between two constructs of online learning platforms, namely virtual meetings and assessments, and three constructs of self-efficacy, i.e., students’ social interaction, academic interaction, and students’ interaction with lecturers. Conclusion: This research shows that more frequent use of online learning platforms, especially those covering independent learning, collaborative learning, and forum discussion, results in higher confidence among EFL students to succeed in online learning. Suggestion: Therefore, this research suggests that lecturers consider using significant features of online learning platforms to enhance students’ self-efficacy in online EFL classes.

Some good news for the school: the levelling effect of the EFL class in FL vocabulary production and FL categorization of autochthonous learners and heritage speaker learners

Abstract Several researchers have drawn attention to the educational challenge posed by multilingual classes where students from different linguistic backgrounds coexist. Current institutional initiatives in Europe, but also elsewhere, advocate for the maintenance and promotion of multilingual and multicultural diversity within both monolingual and multilingual classrooms. In this study located in Spain, we were interested in exploring the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) vocabulary production and FL categorization of a group of heritage bilinguals in comparison with their mainstream monolingual peers. Results from a categorization task revealed that on most measures taken, heritage bilinguals, despite being a more heterogenous group, performed similarly in terms of vocabulary production in general, and as compared against the framework of a standard pre-B1 Cambridge vocabulary list, FL categorization, and typicality structures. The levelling effect of the EFL class is claimed to be accountable for this lack of differences. Furthermore, we dare speculate the generalization of CLIL could play in favour of more inclusive classes where immigrant learners are not left behind and can realise their potential to the fullest.

Teaching Phrasal Verbs in EFL Classes with HIIT Method

This article explores the effectiveness of integrating the High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) method into English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classes for teaching phrasal verbs. The study investigates the impact of the HIIT approach on students' acquisition and usage of phrasal verbs, employing a mixedmethods research design. The findings indicate that the HIIT method enhances phrasal verb learning, leading to improved understanding, retention, and application of these challenging language components. The article concludes with implications for EFL educators seeking innovative approaches to enhance phrasal verb instruction.

Exploring the perspectives of cross-cultural instructors on integrating 21st century skills into EFL university courses

Integrating 21st century skills, including communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking, into English as a Foreign Language (EFL) university courses is imperative. This study adopts a tripartite focus: (1) investigating cross-cultural EFL instructors’ perspectives on challenges linked to infusing 21st century skills into Saudi EFL university courses; (2) identifying contributory factors underpinning these challenges; and (3) elucidating proposed strategies for embedding 21st century skills in selected Saudi EFL university classrooms. Using narrative inquiry as a research method, empirical data was garnered through semi-structured interviews involving thirty EFL instructors representing mixed-gender and eight nationalities across multiple Saudi universities. The findings underscore instructors’ affirmative disposition towards incorporating 21st century skills in EFL classes, despite entrenched academic, institutional, collegial, and student-centered obstacles. Furthermore, the findings spotlight diverse factors exacerbating these challenges, encompassing technological underpinning, temporal constraints, and the absence of robust assessment frameworks, dwindling student engagement, conventional pedagogic paradigms, and administrative complexities. Addressing these challenges necessitates a comprehensive approach characterized by faculty development, curricular realignment, seamless technology integration, collaborative learning ecosystems, student-centric pedagogies, and judicious evaluation mechanisms. Through adopting this holistic approach, educational stakeholders can effectively surmount the intricacies linked with 21st century skill integration, fostering an enriched educational milieu aligned with evolving global imperatives.

Indonesian Suburban Area EFL Teachers' Perspectives on Translanguaging

Bilinguals and multilingual people use translanguaging, which is the technique of using different linguistic components or forms of independent languages to improve communication. When incorporated into teaching methods, translanguaging strategies enable educators to bridge linguistic gaps and support the learning of a foreign language. Despite the perceived advantages of translanguaging, variations in teachers' perceptions create ideological barriers, hindering students from fully embracing translanguaging. This study intends to investigate the perspectives of Indonesian teachers teaching in suburban areas on translanguaging in English language instruction in order to obtain a deeper knowledge of this subject. This study used semi-structured interviews using a qualitative research design to go deep into teachers’ insights on the topic. The result of the study shows that the participants had a generally positive perception on translanguaging and used a variety of translanguaging strategies in their teaching methods, such as the use of contextual cues, cooperation, student-centered approaches, and bidirectional translation. The result of this study also shows participants’ perspective on a crucial need to include translanguaging to support low proficiency level EFL students in their classrooms. In addition, the finding reveals teachers’ perspectives on ramifications of translanguaging when it is used in EFL classes. The findings can be valuable for education stakeholders, particularly in suburban areas, guiding design of lessons with translanguaging practices that cater to learners’ needs in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms.

Potent Roles of Humor in EFL Classes in Higher Education: An Exploratory Study of Lebanese Perspectives

This paper focuses on scrutinizing the attitudes and opinions of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instructors and learners on the use of humor in higher education in Lebanon as a pedagogical tool in classroom contexts. It is used in building a harmonious relationship between instructors and students, lowering affective barriers to learning, keeping students attentive to class activities, developing creativity and increasing instructional effectiveness as well as students’ learning. It also aims to describe the instructors’ experiences in employing it in their classrooms and to determine the students’ perspectives on its potent roles in learning. In this exploratory study, a mixed-method design and a convenient sampling of participants were utilized. A total of 13 EFL instructors, working at 1 public and 4 private universities in Lebanon, and 86 EFL students participated in the study. To describe and quantify their perceptions of the potent roles of employing humor in EFL classes, two online surveys of two sets of questions each, including closed-ended and open-ended, and four focus group discussions were administered. The overall qualitative and quantitative analysis of the data indicated that Lebanese EFL instructors and students have positive attitudes towards integrating humor as a pedagogical tool and as a fundamental part of the teaching strategies in EFL higher education classes. This is because it creates an open communication climate, captures students’ interest in the subject matter, boosts attention, reduces anxiety, makes the instructor more approachable, and yields better instructor evaluation. The findings of this study also revealed the need to train teachers to use humor artfully.

Understanding the Japanese University Students’ Motivation and Demotivation in Attending EFL Classes

The purpose of this study was to identify the motivation and demotivation of Japanese university students in attending English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classes. The participants included 455 students who took English courses for the first semester of 2023 from two private universities in Japan. The data was collected using a five-point Likert scale motivation and demotivation survey comprised of 24 items and two open-ended questions through an online questionnaire. The results from the quantitative and qualitative strands indicated that the motivation of the respondents towards attending EFL classes is mainly extrinsic. The basis of extrinsic motivation comprised getting credit, getting good grades, and knowing the tips for the exam. In addition, Japanese university students showed low demotivation towards attending EFL classes based on teacher-related, class content-related, and personal factors. The thematic analysis revealed that the students have low expectations for success and lack of self-discipline. From a cultural perspective, these findings reveal that the Japanese tend to blame themselves rather than point fingers at others to maintain harmony even in their academic life. The findings of this study can be used by EFL instructors, school administrators, and curriculum developers to offer interventions intended to motivate the demotivated EFL students to improve class attendance and help Japanese university students achieve academic success.

The use of digital learning in the EFL classroom and its effect on self-perceived knowledge, learning, and English use at the University of Tabuk

The aim of the study is to investigate the use of digital technology in English as a foreign language (EFL) classroom using various digital tools through computers and cell phones. These tools and their effect on self-perceived knowledge, learning, and English use were analyzed at the University of Tabuk. The study was conducted on a sample of 605 first-year students at the University of Tabuk for their first two semesters of mandatory beginner and intermediate English courses. Students were asked to fill out a form before and after introducing digital use in the EFL classroom for a whole semester as a university initiative. This involved utilizing audiobooks, Grammarly, HelloTalk, and Duolingo, with the purpose of using these tools to develop and improve students reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The questionnaire scales have been taken from different sources mentioned in the methodology section and analyzed through the bivariate correlation test, multiple regression analysis and paired t test to evaluate the association between the use of digital learning in EFL classes and self-perceived knowledge, learning, and the use of English. The results of this study showed that there is a positive relationship between the use of digital tools in the classroom and students’ development in language learning.

Slovak EFL Teachers' Perceptions of Using L1 at English Lessons

Using L1 (mother tongue) for the purposes of the target language teaching and learning has been the subject of ample debate throughout the years, generating considerable controversy among instructors and researchers. Although the principles of CLT (communicative language teaching) somehow “delimit” to a certain extent its use at EFL (English as a foreign language) classes, attitudes towards the implementation of L1 into foreign language classes may vary considerably. Thus, this article endeavours to plug this gap by examining the Slovak in-service EFL teachers’ (n = 140) perceptions of using L1 at English classes by acquiring and interpreting the data derived from the research method of a questionnaire, employing a 5-point likers scale items. The research outcomes indicate that although it is the tactful, sound, and judicious use of L1 that is favoured by the teachers, the mother tongue appears to take on a relatively high importance in the realms of EFL teaching and learning. Finally, pedagogical implications are discussed, and suggestions are provided regarding the use of L1 at L2 classes. It is vital that further exploration in this area takes place by performing future studies in this regard. Keywords: EFL teacher, in-service English language teacher, EFL learner, teaching English, L1, native language, mother tongue, L2, foreign language

Investigating EFL Students' Engagement in Online English Classes at Taif University

Student engagement is a significant factor that has been linked to academic success. In Saudi Arabia, curriculum development has been undertaken to improve English as a foreign language (EFL) course; however, EFL students still face difficulties engaging together, especially in online classes. The study aims to (1) investigate students' engagement in online courses and (2) provide online students' perspectives on the value of the student engagement strategies for enhancing learning. The Student Course Engagement Questionnaire (SCEQ) and the Online Engagement Strategies Questionnaire (OESQ) were used as reliable measurements; a survey was conducted with 197 EFL students studying Online English language courses. The results reveal a high level of engagement among EFL female and male students and some engagement strategies that were rated most important based on students' perceptions. The study will help generate recommendations to improve EFL practices and develop online EFL classes.

Exploring the influence of cognitive task complexity on EFL language learning and curriculum development

This study explores the role of cognitive task complexity in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) curriculum development and its impact on learner engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes. A mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative methods, was employed to gain comprehensive insights into the topic. The qualitative component involved a case study at a selected language institution, including semi-structured interviews with curriculum designers, teachers, and learners, thematic analysis of curricular documents, and non-participant observations of EFL classes. The findings from these methods provided an in-depth understanding of cognitive task complexity integration, its challenges and benefits, and potential areas for improvement. In the quantitative component, an experimental design was utilized to examine the effects of cognitive task complexity on learner engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes. Participants were randomly assigned to either an experimental group, receiving instruction incorporating cognitively challenging tasks, or a control group, receiving instruction without a specific focus on cognitive task complexity. Learner engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes were assessed through pre- and post-intervention measures, including standardized language assessments such as IELTS, and classroom performance indicators such as course grades and teacher ratings. The study concludes that cognitive task complexity plays a crucial role in EFL curriculum development and can promote learner engagement, motivation, and language development when appropriately integrated and supported. Recommendations for educational practice, curriculum development, and future research are provided based on the study's findings.

The effect of evaluation and feedback in 360-degree video-based VR environments on language learning outcomes

Recently, 360-degree video technology (360VT) received considerable attention in the field of computer-assisted language learning as it creates authentic and immersive virtual reality environments to assist the language learning process. However, not many studies focused on applications of 360VT to assist the evaluation of learner’ performance and providing them with relevant feedback. Therefore, the present study was set to shed light on this aspect. We carried out an experiment to explore the effects of evaluation and feedback in two different video learning environments, i.e. a traditional video technology-based (TVT) and 360VT-based, on learning outcomes. In the context of the present study, evaluation referred to evaluating the content of videos created by students, and feedback referred to providing students with relevant feedback for further improvement of their videos. English as a foreign language (EFL) course was administered for 52 university students. The participants were equally divided into TVT and 360VT groups. They attended EFL classes, and after classes, they created videos using either a traditional video camera (TVT group) or a 360-degree video camera (360VT group) on four learning topics. The evaluators watched videos, evaluated them, and then provided feedback to students. Students then revised their works based on received feedback. The results showed an insignificant difference between the two groups in their pre-test scores when measuring prior knowledge. However, when measuring knowledge after the study, 360VT group students outperformed their counterparts in the post-test. According to the results, students in the 360VT group received significantly more feedback, and it was more detailed compared to that of their counterparts. In addition, the evaluators scored affordances of 360VT higher than those of TVT. The results showed many advantages of 360VT such as it was useful and easy to use during the evaluation process, 360VT created immersive environments so that the evaluators had a realistic experience and a high level of vividness when watching and evaluating videos. The results suggest that evaluation and feedback in 360VT environments had better effects on learning outcomes, and the evaluators positively perceived their experiences in 360VT settings. Therefore, it is suggested that educators and researchers consider implementing 360VT in situations when language learners are tasked with creating their own content, which can subsequently be evaluated with relevant feedback provided.

Analysing gender gaps in foreign language proficiency self-assessment in comparison to test performance among Czech students: the role of foreign language teachers and class grades

ABSTRACT Gender gaps in students’ foreign language proficiency self-assessment can negatively impact their educational careers and position in the labour market. We investigated how female and male students self-assess their English as a foreign language (EFL) proficiency in comparison to their EFL test scores. We further examined the potential differential effect of EFL class-related factors – having a teacher from abroad who is perceived as an English L1 teacher (PEL1T) and an excellent grade in EFL class – on females’ and males’ EFL proficiency self-assessment. Data were collected from 1,399 Czech lower secondary students, who were asked to assess their EFL proficiency on a 7-point rating scale ranging from None to Expert. Our results show that when comparing self-assessment of a female and a male with the same test score, the female would, on average, select a lower self-assessment value than the male. Also, having a PEL1T and having an excellent grade in EFL class are significantly positively associated with higher EFL proficiency self-assessment. However, these positive effects are smaller for females compared to males.

Efficacy of Classroom Management in EFL Classes: A Case Study at Quest, Nawabshah, Pakistan

This research article investigates classroom management in the context of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction at QUEST Nawabshah, Pakistan. It explores classroom dynamics, teacher-student interactions, and the unique challenges within this educational environment. Using qualitative methods, including observations and focus-group interviews, the study identifies current classroom management practices and their impact on learners' motivation, engagement, and achievement. The participants in this qualitative research study include 20 English as Foreign Language (EFL) students. These students were purposefully chosen to reflect a variety of backgrounds, language proficiency levels, and experiences in EFL classes. The findings reveal teaching flaws, such as unclear instructions and limited interaction, along with learner issues like passivity and a fear of making mistakes. The article concludes by discussing practical implications and recommendations for enhancing EFL classroom management, benefiting both educators and students.

The Efficacy of Visual Aids in Enhancing Vocabulary Acquisition in EFL Classes

This research paper investigates the impact of visual aids on vocabulary acquisition in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classes. Vocabulary acquisition is a fundamental aspect of language learning, and innovative teaching methods are continuously sought to improve this process. Visual aids, such as images, videos, flashcards, and infographics, are known to enhance comprehension, retention, and engagement in language learning. However, their specific effectiveness in the context of EFL vocabulary acquisition has not been comprehensively explored. The study employs an experimental research design. 62 EFL learners are randomly assigned to two groups: one group receiving traditional vocabulary instruction without visual aids, and the other group exposed to vocabulary teaching supported by various visual aids. Pre-tests and post-tests are conducted to assess vocabulary knowledge, and feedback from learners is gathered to understand their perceptions and preferences. Preliminary findings suggest that the use of visual aids in EFL vocabulary instruction leads to a statistically significant improvement in vocabulary acquisition (M=5.63) for the pretest and M=6.95 for the posttest. Learners in the visual aids group demonstrate enhanced comprehension, retention, and engagement. The research findings also reveal that visual aids worked better for low level of proficiency students.