English Language Learners Research Articles

Embracing Global Voices: An Exploration of Thai Teachers’ Attitudes and Practices on Culturally Diverse ELT Materials in a Northern Thai University

In recent times, the advancement of technology and globalization has significantly impacted educational practices worldwide, making teaching and learning increasingly complex and interconnected. In the field of English Language Teaching (ELT), these changes have challenged traditional approaches and necessitated the integration of more culturally diverse materials to reflect the global usage of English. Against this backdrop, this study aims to investigate teachers’ attitudes toward cultural diversity and their representation of cultures in ELT materials at a Thai university. Situated in Thailand’s diverse cultural landscape, the research explores how teachers’ cultural backgrounds, institutional policies, and student feedback influence the selection and depiction of cultural content. Utilizing a qualitative approach that employs semi-structured interviews, document analysis, and classroom observations, the study seeks to uncover the extent to which global cultures are represented in their ELT materials. In addition, it aims to identify trends in teachers’ practices and perceptions, highlighting a potential shift towards a more inclusive curriculum that mirrors the global context of English language teaching and learning. Consequently, this study contributes to the broader discourse on the importance of cultural diversity in education, offering practical recommendations for educators and policymakers in globalized educational environments.

HIERARCHICAL ENCODING AND CONDITIONAL ATTENTION IN NEURAL MACHINE TRANSLATION

Constructivist learning theory posits that learners develop their comprehension and knowledge of the world by reflecting on their experiences. This theory stresses the importance of active, learner-centered education, in which students develop critical thinking skills, solve problems, and build upon their prior knowledge. Constructivist methodologies can substantially improve language acquisition and proficiency in the context of English instruction. This paper investigates the fundamental principles of constructivist learning theory and evaluates its practical applications in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction. The efficacy of critical strategies, including scaffolding, authentic tasks, and collaborative learning, are emphasized in cultivating a dynamic and interactive learning environment. In addition, the adaptability of constructivist methods in various educational environments is examined, allowing educators to customize their teaching strategies to accommodate the distinctive requirements of English language learners. This paper endeavors to provide educators with a comprehensive framework for integrating constructivist principles into their English teaching practices, thereby improving student engagement and language mastery through thoroughly examining literature and case studies.

Print Rich Classroom: An Exposure to Learn English Language Reading Proficiency

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of print rich classroom on English language reading proficiency of fourth grade. The study utilized a randomized pretest-posttest control group design, drawn from true experimental research methods, was employed. A sample of forty fourth-grade students was randomly selected from a private school in Aroop, Gujranwala. Forty students were chosen and divided into two groups: twenty were randomly assigned to the control group and twenty to the experimental group. The control group was taught using traditional teaching methods, while the experimental group received instruction through a print-rich method. Lesson plans incorporating the print-rich method were specifically designed by the researcher for the experimental group. The control group continued with the traditional teaching method for one month. An English Language Reading Proficiency (ELRP) test was developed by the researcher to assess reading skills. The test's validity was confirmed using quantitative methods and expert opinion. Data were collected from both groups, with pre-tests and post-tests administered. The results showed that students taught using the print-rich method confirmed greater improvement in reading proficiency compared to those taught using traditional methods. The study's review clearly indicated, in light of other researchers' earlier research investigations, that this study is beneficial for English language learners that print rich classroom offers a variety of chances for students to advance their English language reading abilities both within and outside of the classroom.

An In-Depth Analysis of Cohesion Utilization in the English Language: Implications for Effective Communication and Textual Coherence

This study focuses on the link between coherence and the English language notion of cohesiveness. Cohesion is defined as the way in which different elements of a text or speech are linked together to create a unified and integrated whole. The study identifies the challenges in determining the appropriate level of cohesion for a given text and how factors such as audience, purpose, and context can affect cohesion. The aims of the research are to provide learners with a better understanding of cohesion in English and to demonstrate the importance of cohesion in producing clear and effective communication. The paper is divided into three sections: the first section introduces the problem, aims, scope, procedure, and hypothesis; the second section provides a detailed explanation of the definition, general meaning, models, and types of cohesion; and the third section examines lexical and grammatical cohesion in more detail. The theory argues that English language learners typically don't understand the ideas of cohesion and coherence, which leads to poor writing that is illogical and grammatically incorrect. The research methodology involves data collection from English books, analysis, comparison of essays on cohesion, and consultation with instructors of English. Ultimately, this research highlights the importance of cohesion in achieving coherence and producing effective communication in English. The practical study of grammatical cohesion conducted in the English Department of Sawa University's College of Education aimed to assess students' comprehension of linguistic phenomena such as conjunction, ellipsis, references, and substitution. The study involved 54 participants, comprising of 36 females and 18 males, who were presented with 18 different prompts and asked to identify the linguistic phenomenon present in each response. The study's analysis revealed that participants identified these linguistic phenomena differently for each prompt, with some responses predominantly identified as conjunction, while others were predominantly identified as ellipsis or references. These findings provide insight into how individuals interpret and use language and can contribute to the development of linguistic theories and models.

Unreadiness in the Student-Centered English Language Learning Context in the Age of Online Learning

Unreadiness in the Student-Centered English Language Learning Context in the Age of Online Learning

The Acquisition of Present Perfect by English Language Learners: A Comparative Study

The Acquisition of Present Perfect by English Language Learners: A Comparative Study

Reexamining the Relationship Between Communication and Language Through Discourse Analysis: A Case Study Using Movie Material*

The purpose of this paper is to examine the nature of communication and the function of language through discourse analysis using movie material. To achieve this, six English-major undergraduates were selected as subjects. The movie used for this study was <i>Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris</i> (Fabian, 2022). Over a three-month period, the subjects participated and were administered six tests, along with one report. Two tests focused on content relevant to the case study (the second and sixth tests), while three tests focused on form (the first, third, and fourth tests). The fifth test combined content and form. The results indicated that subjects B, C, and D preferred content-based instruction (emphasizing the nature of communication, stories, culture, etc.), despite subject D not achieving a high test score. Subject A was ambivalent, noting that while content-based instruction was beneficial, language learning was also necessary. Subjects E and F preferred English language learning. In their reports commenting on the method, subjects B, C, and D were positive, subject A had mixed feelings, and subjects E and F were indifferent. Considering that three out of six subjects responded positively, we believe that using discourse analysis can be effective in helping students understand the nature of communication.

The Utilization of Interactive Multimedia in Improving Vocabulary Knowledge of High School Students

In the current digital era, English education is becoming increasingly important. By integrating English language learning with digital learning media, it is hoped to create a more dynamic and student-centered learning environment. The goal is to facilitate students in achieving the set learning objectives. This research focuses on evaluating the effectiveness of interactive multimedia in improving English vocabulary comprehension in English subjects at the junior high school level. The research method employed is an experiment with a quasi-experimental design, involving pre and posttests in both control and experimental classes. The sample consists of 32 students from class VIII B (experimental group) and 32 students from class VIII C (control group) in SMPN 1 Jatisrono, selected using cluster random sampling from various classes. The experimental group receives treatment through learning activities using interactive multimedia, while the control group does not use interactive multimedia in the learning process. Data collection is conducted through attitude scale questionnaires filled out by junior high school students. The research findings indicate that the use of interactive multimedia significantly influences the improvement of students' English vocabulary comprehension. This is evidenced by the significant increase in students' English vocabulary knowledge after undergoing learning with interactive multimedia. Interactive multimedia is considered effective in influencing students' comprehension and helping them achieve learning objectives. Thus, interactive multimedia can be considered a suitable learning medium for English subjects at the junior high school level. The use of technology in such learning is crucial to keep up with the times and ensure that students have skills relevant to current global needs. This underscores the importance of integrating technology into education to create more effective and engaging learning experiences for students.

Enhancing Teacher Competence in Differentiated Instruction for English Language Learners with Disabilities: A Professional Development Intervention

The purpose of this research was to assess the efficacy of a professional development program in enhancing the teaching abilities of educators in Saudi Arabia when it comes to instructing English Language Learners (ELLs) who have impairments. The research specifically targeted the Asir area. Upon completion of pre-test and post-test assessments, we saw substantial improvements in teacher competency, as shown by the outcomes of paired t-tests. The multiple regression analysis revealed that pre-existing competence and educational background were significant predictors of the intervention's performance. Following the completion of correlation and ANCOVA analyses, it was determined that the perceived usefulness of the intervention did not have a statistically significant effect on practical modifications in teaching techniques. This implies that other variables, such as structural obstacles and specific attributes of teachers, have a greater impact. The results emphasize the need of tailoring professional development programs to match the distinct profiles and current abilities of individual teachers, in order to attain optimal performance. The research concluded that instructors must undergo meticulously designed professional development programs to proficiently implement differentiated education. This intervention will enhance the academic achievements of English Language Learners who have impairments.

Exploring the Efficacy of Multisensory Techniques in Enhancing Reading Fluency for Dyslexic English Language Learners

The research had age-related basic English language learners with dyslexia drawn from Abha City, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The researchers were pursuing the question of the effectiveness of multimodal methods in building the reading fluency and comprehension of ELLs. Researchers implemented a quasi-experimental study with a random-assignment approach: the sample was divided between the experimental group and the control group of sixty students. The control group experiences learning through conventional instructional schemes. We used the pre-and post-test of reading to measure the fluency and comprehension levels with additional feedback received from the students to evaluate our class’s effectiveness. Through the implementation of this research, there was a remarkable increase in both reading fluency and the ability to understand, by the children involved. Moreover, students of the experimental groups exhibited significantly better perceptions of the course compared to the control groups than the others. Numerical analysis of significance having t-tests, ANOVA, and regressive analysis showed that multimodal technique was significant and positive. A final correlation study showed a positive relationship between students' favourable appraisals of a multimodal teaching method and their reading skills. It may be implied that dyslexic English language learners (ELLs) should use multimodal treatment in multifaceted settings to learn all academic subjects. The foci are to lend weight to educational policies that endorse the approach of inclusive teaching methods with educators. The paper also focuses on the fact that there is a need for the provision of teachers with the needed resources and skills development through teacher training. Consequently, how students are taught must include several modes that are appropriate to the distinct needs of all learners, including those with dyslexia. That's because blending all those methods supports students with language-based learning difficulties.

University Students' Attitudes and Perceptions on Learning English with ChatGPT

This study examines 43 master's students' perceptions of ChatGPT in English language learning at Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta. Using a descriptive quantitative methodology, data was gathered via questionnaires and interviews. Results show positive attitudes towards ChatGPT, with most students finding it user-friendly and beneficial for reading, writing, and cultural understanding. However, they are less confident in its ability to improve listening and speaking skills. Concerns include potential plagiarism, information leakage, and accuracy of content. Despite these issues, students find ChatGPT helpful and call for more structured guidance to enhance its integration into language learning. The study underscores the need for strategies to optimize ChatGPT’s benefits while mitigating its limitations

Training to Improve English Vocabulary Through Audio-Visual Media for Junior High School Students at Kuala Lumpur International School

When it is done appropriately, the transition from traditional classroom instruction to technology-based instruction in English language instruction has a lot of potential advantages. A few crucial aspects of its implementation to consider include selecting appropriate technology and emphasizing vocabulary expansion. There is a great chance that training targeted at increasing students' vocabulary following the use of audio-visuals in English language learning will boost their motivation even more. Participants from Silo Baru Village's coastal primary schools will have the chance to learn more about this technology in particular. It is hoped that by using audio-visual media to enhance vocabulary acquisition, students will become more intrinsically motivated as a result of this training activity. It is thought that since kids are really interested in studying, they would be able to concentrate more on improving their mastery of vocabulary in English. It is important to monitor and evaluate the impact of this training, both in terms of increasing vocabulary and in students' learning motivation. The data and feedback obtained from this activity will be key to assessing the effectiveness of audio-visual technology in improving the English language skills of coastal elementary schools in the new silo village of Asahan Regency.

Leveraging Social Media for Language Acquisition: Exploring How High School Students Use Facebook for English Language Learning (ELL)

This study investigates how high school students utilize Facebook to enhance their English language skills. Through interviews and content analysis, the research explores how Facebook exposes students to diverse English content, from news articles to social interactions. This exposure fosters incidental language learning, improving grammar, vocabulary, and current event awareness. Furthermore, Facebook facilitates communication skill development through casual interactions with other English speakers. However, the spread of misinformation and informal language use necessitates the development of critical thinking skills to ensure reliable information is gleaned and proper English is adopted. In conclusion, Facebook holds potential as a tool for English language learning when used strategically alongside other resources and a critical approach to information evaluation.

Exploring task engagement strategies in DDL-enhanced tasks: Insights from EFL learners

The growing recognition of the concept of task engagement over the last two decades has made it a popular topic for research in second language acquisition (SLA). Yet, the field of SLA is still in its infancy in understanding engagement. Given its dynamic and malleable nature, investigating what strategies lead to more engagement provides grounds for developing interventions that promote learners’ task engagement and better capturing its essence. To this end, the present study set out to explore what strategies English as a foreign language (EFL) learners use to promote their engagement in data-driven learning (DDL)-enhanced tasks, tasks that require learners to explore authentic examples of particular language forms to discover how they work. Participants of the study were 308 EFL learners. The data were collected through an online open-ended task engagement strategies questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. The results indicated that learners use a wide range of strategies, including agentive, behavioral, metacognitive, cognitive, metaemotional, and social engagement, to maintain their engagement in DDL-enhanced tasks. The findings may be used to inform English language teaching and learning by developing interventions that promote learners’ task engagement.

Exploring the Challenges of L1 Negative Transfer among Vietnamese English Language Learners: A Qualitative Study

The current study aimed to gain insight into the nuanced challenges that Vietnamese learners encountered due to the interference of their native linguistic structures and norms. This qualitative study explored the experiences of Vietnamese learners in acquiring English, focusing on the influence of negative L1 transfer. This study focused on the influence of negative transfer from their first language (L1) by drawing upon in-depth interviews and observational data from a group of Vietnamese university students. The results showed that despite exhibiting high levels of motivation and enthusiasm for learning English, Vietnamese learners struggled with the shadows of L1 interference in areas such as pronunciation, syntax, and idiomatic expressions. The tonal nature of the Vietnamese language led to intonation patterns in English that deviated from native norms. Direct translations also contributed to unidiomatic English, indicating a deep influence of L1 thought patterns. Additionally, cultural contexts embedded within the Vietnamese language presented challenges, as some concepts and expressions lacked direct English equivalents. Although students faced various obstacles, they utilized a variety of adaptive techniques to lessen the impact of negative transfer. These techniques included code-switching, peer correction, and self-reflection. The study emphasized the significance of recognizing and comprehending the significant role of L1 when creating English language educational programs and teaching techniques for Vietnamese students. By illuminating the specific challenges and adaptive strategies of these learners, educators could personalize their approaches, leading to a more comprehensive and efficacious language-learning atmosphere.

Instructors’ Beliefs About ESP Assessment: A Case Study

With the world's increasing globalization, English has become the most widely used language for communication, and English for Specific Purposes (ESP) has begun to receive more attention in the twenty-first century due to the effects of globalization and an increase in the need for skilled workers. English for Specific Purposes is a specialized branch of English language learning that focuses on teaching English in particular fields. The assessment process must be customized to the unique characteristics of English for Specific Purposes (ESP), and teacher beliefs can significantly impact on how students are taught and assessed in this subject. Previous research has concentrated on ESP course design and needs assessment in the field. However, teachers' beliefs regarding ESP assessment have not received enough attention. As a result, the study's goal is to investigate the instructors' beliefs regarding ESP assessment in higher education. Three English instructors in a state university’s College of Foreign Languages serve as a sample for this qualitative case study. Semi-structured interviews and seven weeks of reflective journaling were used to gather the data. According to the results, participants believe that ESP assessment has specificity, and it is valuable and accountable. It is also believed that ESP assessment lacks students’ motivation and requires adaptation. The school policy, student motivation, and teacher performance in ESP assessment have influenced these beliefs. To conclude, teacher participation and education are necessary for ESP assessment.

University Students' Attitudes and Perceptions on Learning English with Mobile Apps

This study investigates university students' attitudes and perceptions toward using mobile applications for English language learning. Conducted at Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta with 43 master's students, the research employed a survey to assess various aspects of mobile app usage. Results indicate a generally positive view, with high engagement in listening and multimedia activities, underscoring the effectiveness of mobile apps in these areas. However, there are concerns about content accuracy and the need for improved support for writing skills. Students found mobile apps convenient and enjoyable, suggesting their significant potential to enhance language education. Recommendations include integrating mobile apps more systematically into curricula, focusing on features that support writing skills, and addressing concerns about information reliability. Future research should explore long-term impacts, effective integration strategies, and the role of specific app features in language development

Mobile Devices and the Autonomy in English Language Learning: A Deeper Look at Van Lang University

Mobile Devices and the Autonomy in English Language Learning: A Deeper Look at Van Lang University

Unveiling the complexity of L2 learners’ emotions and emotion regulation: A retrodictive qualitative modeling study

AbstractSecond/foreign language (L2) learners often go through a gamut of conflicting experiences embedded within their emotional system, which can be managed through emotion regulation (ER). Motivated by complex dynamic systems theory (CDST), this qualitative study aimed to explore the signature dynamics of positive and negative emotions among six Iranian adolescent English language learners. Additionally, the study investigated how learners manage their emotions in the L2 classroom. Using the CDST as its main theoretical framework and retrodictive qualitative modeling as its main methodology, the current investigation revealed that the learners’ emotional systems were mediated by internal and external contexts, as well as dynamicity. It was further discovered that ER strategies were driven by multiple simultaneous factors influencing emotional systems and the adaptability of those systems to new situations. In the end, we discuss how policymakers, teachers, and researchers can adopt the findings to provide some well‐needed support for classroom‐based L2 learners.

Relevance and Experience Constructing Identities as Future Teachers of English Language Learners: Multiple Case Studies of Three Mainstream Teacher Candidates

Given the continuous increase of students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in K-12 classrooms in the United States (US), there is no doubt that meeting English language learners’ (ELLs’) linguistic and academic needs is a pressing matter. However, teachers report feeling unprepared or believing that ELLs are the responsibility of other specialists. This study responds to the call for preparing mainstream teachers for today’s diverse classrooms by exploring teacher candidates’ teacher professional identity (TPI) construction. Using multiple case study designs of three mainstream teacher candidates, the findings of this study highlight (a) multiple I-positions engaging in dialogues, (b) relevant teacher education experiences (re)shaping TPIs, and (c) relevant diversity-related issues in macrosociety entering minisociety. Findings indicate the importance of critical reflection in teacher education programs and facilitating opportune and considerate practicum placements. Further implications and recommendations for teacher education research and practice are discussed.