English Language Performance Research Articles

The Role of Growth Mindset on the Relationships between Students’ Perceptions of English Language Teachers’ Feedback and Their ESL Learning Performance

The importance of growth mindset and teachers’ feedback has been widely recognised to improve the English language performance of students; however, the impact of growth mindset as a mediator is least explored. Therefore, the study aimed to empirically analyse the interrelationships between growth mindset and teachers’ feedback levels on secondary school students’ English as a Second Language (ESL) performance and to study the mediation effects of growth mindset in the relationships. The research model examined growth mindset along with four types of feedback. The levels of feedback include task, process, self-regulation and self-based feedback that teachers provide to improve the ESL performance of students. Survey questionnaires were administered to 301 secondary school students in Class 9 from two private schools in India. The data were analysed using PLS-SEM 4.0 software. The results indicated that the direct effect of feedback that emphasised process and self-regulation fosters a growth mindset in ESL students. Feedback levels focused on task, process, self-regulation, and growth mindset significantly impact ESL performance. Moreover, growth mindset mediated the relationships between process and self-regulation-focused feedback and ESL performance. However, no evidence supports the relationship between self-focused feedback, growth mindset, and ESL performance. The study concludes with implications and directions for future research.

Online-Distance Instruction: Impact on the English Language Learning

Using a qualitative-quantitative research design, this study evaluated the influence of online- distance instruction (ODI) on the English language acquisition of college students amidst the Covid-19 pandemic at Partido State University, Camarines Sur, Philippines. The study specifically examined the effects of ODI on college students' performance in terms of: attendance, punctuality, required English language skills and competencies. Furthermore, it analyzed the students' proficiency in English through online-distance learning in the areas of: writing, grammar proficiency, oral communication, study techniques, presentation abilities, and research skills. The study also investigated the students' attitudes towards English language education in the context of online and distance learning. Ultimately, it proposed effective teaching methodologies to enhance students' English language performance in online- distance learning environments of 165 college student- participants. The findings indicate that the impact of online-distance instruction on college students' performance in terms of attendance, punctuality, and required skills and competencies is influenced by various challenges faced by the students. The students' performance in English through online-distance learning is significantly affected by the nature of online and distance learning itself. Moreover, the study revealed that students' attitudes towards English language education in online and distance learning settings are less favorable compared to traditional face-to-face instruction. To enhance students' English language performance in online-distance learning, the study recommends the implementation of three key teaching strategies: lecture method, laboratory method, and cooperative learning. These strategies are deemed beneficial for addressing the needs of student-respondents, particularly in the context of a pandemic in developing countries like the Philippines.

Enhancing English Academic Writing: The Effects of Movie Trailers on Structure Comprehension, Motivation, and Critical Thinking*

This study explores the use of audiovisual media, specifically movie trailers, in English language teaching and their potential benefits in improving structure comprehension, critical thinking and learner motivation. This research focuses on Japanese English education students. It presents a case study using movie trailers and videos of fairy tales to help students understand the structure and usefulness of academic writing, develop critical thinking attitudes, and increase their motivation toward learning English. The study involved 105 Japanese-speaking university students, who worked on assignments using six movie trailers and two fairy tales as teaching materials. The experimental procedures included ten sessions on reading and listening assignments, and five on integrating movie trailers, where students learned the relevance of movie trailers to academic writing and created original trailers for assigned short stories. Data were collected through questionnaires and completed assignments. The results show that integrating movie trailers into English language teaching significantly enhances students’ comprehension of academic writing structures, increases their motivation to learn English, and develops their critical thinking skills. The use of familiar audiovisual materials, like movie trailers, proved effective in making the learning process more engaging and practical, ultimately contributing to better academic performance in English language writing and presentation skills.

The Impact of Teaching English Literature on improving EFL University Learners’ Performance.

Teaching English Literature is important in learning English language in Uinversities. In all the English departments in Universities, having an English literature course is a must. Generally speaking, literature has a huge role in enhancing the student’s ability in the four skills of learning language. Therefore, in many foreign countries, English literature begins at early stage of education. The idea of teaching literature at early stage is to make learners familiar with the native culture for linguistic purposes. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of teaching English literature for EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners to perform a better performance in English language. In order to improve EFL learners' English proficiency, the researcher advises teachers to create efficient techniques and approaches for teaching English literature.

Empowering Learners to Improve English Language Performance through Group Discussion Strategy in Selected Secondary Schools in Rwanda

This study investigates the impact of the group discussion strategy on English language performance among secondary school students in Rwanda. Recognizing the critical role of English proficiency in academic achievement and future career opportunities, the research addresses the persistent challenges faced by students in mastering the language through traditional teaching methods. The study adopts a descriptive research design using a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data to assess the effectiveness of group discussions in enhancing students' comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing skills. This study was guided by Vygotsky's Sociocultural Theory. Data were collected through filled questionnaires from students, teachers’ and administrative staff. Results indicate that the group discussion strategy significantly improves students' English language performance by fostering interactive and collaborative learning environments. Students showed increased engagement, motivation, and confidence in using English. The findings suggest that incorporating group discussions into the curriculum can effectively empower learners and enhance English language education in Rwandan secondary schools. The study established that group discussions significantly contribute to improving various language skills among students. The interactive nature of these discussions fosters engagement and participation, leading to heightened confidence and motivation among students. The study recommends integrating structured group discussions into Rwanda's English curriculum, supported by teacher training. It emphasizes creating supportive environments, leveraging technology, promoting peer support, and implementing continuous assessment and feedback. These measures aim to improve English proficiency, enhancing students' academic success and future prospects in a globalized world.

The relationship between trait emotional intelligence and English language performance among Chinese EFL university students: The mediating roles of boredom and burnout

With the wave of positive psychology in second language acquisition, more emotion factors are gaining scholarly attention. Despite extensive research on Trait Emotional Intelligence (TEI), burnout and boredom in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) studies, the interplay of these variables remains unknown and the related impact on EFL learner's English Language Performance (ELP) is still underexplored. Given this, in light of Control-Value Theory (CVT), the present study used a quantitative method to examine the mediating roles of boredom and burnout in the connection between TEI and ELP among Chinese university students engaged in EFL endeavor. Data were collected from 489 second-year EFL students. Structural equation modeling was utilized to analyze the relationships. Results revealed that TEI significantly influences ELP among Chinese EFL university students, through its correlation with both boredom and burnout. Higher levels of TEI are associated with reduced experiences of these negative states, which in turn are linked to improved language performance. These may imply that teacher educators should integrate emotional intelligence training into curricula and professional development to improve students' effectiveness and learning outcome.

Effect of Community of Inquiry on Polytechnic Undergraduates’ Performance in English Language: A Case Study of Delta State Polytechnic

Effect of Community of Inquiry on Polytechnic Undergraduates’ Performance in English Language: A Case Study of Delta State Polytechnic

The Influence of Play Based Learning Project on Learner Performance in Science and Elementary Technology and English Language Subjects

This study investigated the effects of Play-Based Learning (PBL) on student performance in Science and Elementary Technology (SET) and English language subjects at primary schools in Ruhango Sector, Ruhango District. The main objective of this study was to investigate the effects of play based learning on student performance of SET and English language subjects in Ruhango Sector, specifically the study focused on the effect of play based learning project, perception regarding the teacher’s roles on learner performance of SET and English language and establish the relationship between play-based learning project and learners’ performance of SET and English language subjects in primary school of Ruhango sector. The theories that guided research were Theory of Constraints (TOC) is a process designed to identify and eliminate constraints in organizational processes that hinder the achievement of organizational goals and Social Cognitive Theory is based on his central concept of self-efficacy. This study used a descriptive and correlational research designs. The target population was 150 people including headteachers and teachers. The sample size of was 96 teachers with backgrounds in SET and English language subjects and 12 headtechers. This study used questionnaire as a primary data source. The questionnaire involved written questions to which the teachers were required to write answers individually and interview guides were used to collect information from headteachers. Microsoft Office Excel was used for analyzing the results from the questionnaire and interview. The Pearson Correlation was used to test one hypothesis. The study concluded that Play Based Learning played an importance role in learner performance of Science and Elementary Technology and English language subjects through play-based activities. The research revealed a strong positive correlation between Project-Based Learning (PBL) initiatives and students' academic achievement in English language courses (r=.9650*, p=0.001). Similarly, a significant positive association was observed between Project-Based Learning (PBL) endeavours and learners' performance in Science, Elementary and Technology (SET) subjects (r=.9836*, p=0.001). The study recommends that teachers should regularly monitor content and adjust settings for individual learners. Finally, teachers should apply practices associated with engagement by determining if learner enjoy the game or want to play.

The Contribution of English Reading Materials to Improving Students' English Performance in Lower Secondary Schools in the Shyira Sector of Nyabihu District, Rwanda

This research aimed to examine the relationship between the use of English reading materials and the improvement of students' English language performance in Lower Secondary Schools in the Shyira sector. Based on the Simple View of Reading (SVR) and the Cognitive Load Theory (CLT), the descriptive research design with a mixed approach was employed. Two selected schools were studied: one with a well-equipped library containing English reading materials and the other with a poorly equipped library lacking English reading materials. The study population consisted of 106 individuals, including 92 lower secondary students, 10 teachers, and 4 Deputy Head teacher in charge of studies /teachers, selected randomly from a population of 145. Primary data and secondary data were collected through questionnaires and interview guides. Quantitative data was analyzed descriptively by use of excel and the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) while qualitative data was subjected to thematic analysis. The findings reveal the use of various reading materials, such as newspapers, textbooks, handouts, dictionaries, expert opinions, poetry, online readings, and adventure stories in Lower Secondary Schools in the Shyira sector. It was observed that the lack of English reading materials and libraries in lower secondary schools leads to poor English performance among students. The study suggests strategies to improve learners' English skills, including promoting the use of English reading materials, fostering a culture of reading, and motivating students to utilize libraries. Additionally, teachers should serve as English role models and actively encourage reading to enhance students' motivation.

Effect of Community of Inquiry on Polytechnic Undergraduates’ Performance in English Language: A Case Study of Delta State Polytechnic, Nigeria

The study investigated effect of Community of Inquiry (CoI) on polytechnic undergraduates’ performance and interest in English Language: A case study of Delta State Polytechnic. Three objectives of the study, three research questions and three hypotheses guided the study. The population of the study consisted of all the National Diploma II students who are offering the course Use of English 2 (GNS 102.1) for the 2022/2023 academic session in School of Engineering which is one hundred and eighty (180) students. The sample size of this study consisted of one hundred and eighty (180) students using census sampling technique. The instrument for the study was English Language Performance Test (EPT). Mean, standard deviation and z-test were the statistical tools used for the study. The findings revealed that there is a significant difference in the effect on the students’ pre-test and post-test mean performance in English Language. There is a significant difference in the performance of students taught English Language using Community of Inquiry (CoI) and those taught with conventional method of teaching. Furthermore, there is a significant difference in the mean performance scores of male and female students when taught English Language using Community of Inquiry (CoI) instructional strategy. Based on these findings it was recommended that lecturers should adopt the use of Community of Inquiry instructional strategy in teaching English Language in the polytechnics for improved academic performance by students. Polytechnic lecturers should be trained on how to use the current and innovative teaching strategies in the field of education for self-efficiency in the profession. Also, that students’ gender should also be considered by lecturers since the study has revealed it as a factor that can predict performance among learners before adopting any teaching strategy for maximum academic productivity.

Predictive Modelling of Students’ University English Language Performance by Classification with Gaussian Process Models

This work suggests predicting student performance using a Gaussian process model classification in order to address the issue that the prediction approach is too complex and the data set involved is too huge in the process of predicting students’ performance. In order to prevent overfitting, a sample set consisting of the three typical test outcomes from 465 undergraduate College English students is divided into training and test sets. The cross-validation technique is used in this study. According to the findings, Gaussian process model classification can accurately predict 92\% of the test set with a prediction model, and it can also forecast students’ final exam marks based on their typical quiz scores. Furthermore, it is discovered that the prediction accuracy increases with the sample set’s distance from the normal distribution; this prediction accuracy rises to 96\% when test scores with less than 60 points are taken out of the analysis.

“I don’t understand what you’re saying!”: My (In)capability to Perform the Standardized English Language

ABSTRACT In this critical postcolonial autoethnography, I share my lived experiences growing up as a subordinate middle-class Indian who was (un)able to perform the language of English despite his exposure to English medium education and hence, was deemed (in)capable of any future aspirations. In this paper, I use my body as a site of struggle to analyze how the performance of the standardized English language which was initially encouraged by British colonizers to ensure systemic manipulation of the colonized has now been normalized as an absolute necessity that automatically ensures upward mobility. In this process, I also examine how the hegemony of the foreign language regulates and disciplines the societal aspirations of the Indian middle class. Ultimately, I use this paper to reflect on my journey – from my (in)capability to perform the English language to embracing my subordinate Bengali middle-class identity and how I negotiate my (in)capability as my critical intersectional identity.

The relationship between identity development and medical students’ performance in technology-integrated English language classrooms

Background: Contemporary technologies have created a unique set of circumstances that shape the life experiences and identities of medical students. These circumstances diverge and extend beyond the contexts experienced by previous generations in the pre-digital era. Methods: We explored how medical students’ identity development and English language performance were related in technology-integrated classrooms from February to June 2023. The research, a cross-sectional quantitative survey, studied 450 medical students at Islamic Azad University of Kerman, Iran. The study, a cross-sectional quantitative survey, was conducted on 450 medical students at the Islamic Azad University of Kerman, Iran. To collect the data, an identity development questionnaire in technology-integrated classrooms was submitted to participants either in person or via email. Data were collected using an identity development questionnaire in technology-integrated classrooms, and distributed to participants in person or via email. Furthermore, the participants’ English language proficiency scores reported by their English instructors were used to assess their English language performance. Results: The study found a positive correlation between identity development, its sub-scales, and the participants’ English language performance in technology-integrated classrooms. Commitment-making emerged as the most efficacious factor in predicting English Language Proficiency within the ambit of identity development. Within the scope of identity development, commitment-making was identified as the most effective factor in predicting English language proficiency. Conclusion: While contemporary digital technologies are not crucial for identity formation, they offer enriched opportunities for individuals to explore and express their sense of self. Particularly in the medical field, students can utilize these technologies to engage in diverse and collaborative interactions. This not only allows them to connect with others and participate in various communication modes, but also aids in the expression of their identity, idea exchange, and information acquisition across various contexts.

MAKING ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING EASIER: TEACHING LITERATURE USING CONTENT-BASED INSTRUCTION IN THE BANGLADESHI TERTIARYT EFL CLASSROOM

The main objective of this study is to determine the feasibility of CBI approaches for teaching literature in the context of EFL in Bangladesh. This paper conducts a pilot study to determine whether it is feasible to use CBI in literature classes to enhance EFL proficiency in Bangladeshi higher education. This study builds an environment in which students actively participate in literary conversations in order to acquire grammatical aspects of the target language and use them as a platform for the production of meaningful communication by combining form-focused and literature-based strategies. The pilot test involving 13 non-targeted undergraduate Bangladeshi students was undertaken to assess the lesson plans, and 20 targeted undergraduate students from Bangladesh took part in the implementation of the lesson plans for content-based instruction in a literary course. Through pre- and post-test results from pilot studies, the study examines the usefulness of content-based instruction in teaching literature to EFL students in Bangladesh as well as the effectiveness of CBI methodologies. The study integrated both quantitative and qualitative methods for data analysis. In a fully randomised study, a variety of CBI outcome factors were assessed for feasibility and importance. Teaching ESL skills in literary courses with more detailed time information for each component would be useful. Finally, content-based education generated positive outcomes and may be utilised as an effective methodology and critical help in establishing opportunities to use English, resulting in improved English language performance.

Effect of Mother Tongue on English Language Performance among Grade 3 Pupils in MSU-ILS

This research aims to investigate the effects of the mother tongue on English language performance among grade 3 pupils at Mindanao State University-Integrated Laboratory School (MSU-ILS) in Marawi City. The study is grounded in language acquisition theories, including Stephen Krashen’s Input Hypothesis, Jim Cummin’s Interdependence Theory, and Lev Vygotsky’s Theory on Social Interaction. The conceptual framework encompasses psychological, personal, and social factors, with an emphasis on the impact of the mother tongue on learners' English language proficiency. The research employs a descriptive-correlational method, utilizing descriptive statistics such as percentages, frequency distributions, and means to analyze demographic profiles and assess the status of psychological and social factors influencing English language learning. The study addresses specific questions related to the learners' profiles, attitudes, motivations, learning strategies, and environmental factors affecting language acquisition. Additionally, it investigates the relationship between English language performance and psychological, personal, and social factors, with a focus on vocabulary, grammar, and comprehension. The hypotheses tested include the absence of significant relationships between English language performance and psychological factors, personal factors, social factors, and cognitive factors. The study, set at MSU-ILS, a laboratory school within the Mindanao State University campus, provides insights into the ongoing debate surrounding the role of the mother tongue in language instruction and its implications for learners' competence and performance. The findings aim to inform educators, curriculum developers, and policymakers, offering recommendations for optimizing language learning strategies in the context of the new curriculum in the Philippines.

EFL Teachers’ Views about The Application of Collaborative Learning at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia

This study aims to investigate teachers’ views about the implementation of collaborative learning in English classes. Collaborative learning helps students to improve their English language performance. The data was collected through observation, questionnaires, and interview. The quantitative data were analyzed using percentage and frequency. Theme analysis technique was used to analyze the qualitative data. The result of the study indicated that most EFL teachers widely implement students’ collaborative learning, but the type of collaborative learning they are implementing is not collaborative group learning. Most of the teachers simply make their students to sit side by side to talk with each other as they do their individual assignments, and some teachers assign a task to groups. Then, one or two of the group members do the work and the other group members get equal credit. Although each of these is important in collaborative learning, they do not qualify collaborative learning rather traditional group learning. The data obtained from teachers’ interview revealed that teachers widely implement both informal and base group collaborative learning since most of the teachers allow their students to work collaborative from few minutes to a class period and most of the groups (‘Net works’) formed are with stable membership for the semester. In addition to this, some teachers were not playing their roles as they are expected. Teachers and other concerned bodies ought to deliver sorts of orientations to the students about the importance of collaborative learning to maximize their views before implementing collaborative learning.

Enhancing EFL Learning Through Computer-Based Gamification: An Investigation of Impact.

This study examines the impact of computer-based gamification on English language learning among adult and young learners. In order to gauge any potential impact of this teaching technique on learners, empirical research has been conducted using a quantitative design. Relevant data was collected using two quantitative data collection instruments; a questionnaire and a proctored test. The questionnaire sought to get insights into adult learners’ perspectives with regard to web-based learning while the test measured any impact of using Kahoot on English language performance and retention. The current study showed that the use of Kahoot positively affects learners' performance, motivation, engagement, and retention of English language skills and components. Besides, this research offers valuable recommendations to ESL teachers and designers of teaching materials as well, suggesting more integration of gamification in language teaching programs to enhance motivation and enjoyment in the EFL classroom. Furthermore, it emphasizes some advantages and drawbacks of integrating web-based gamification in teaching.

Experiential Learning Strategy and Preschoolers' Performance in English Language

This experimental study was conducted to examine the effect of experiential learning strategy on vocabulary development of preschool children in English language. The study used a pretest-post quasi experimental design. Two intact groups of preschool children were selected from an English medium school. Each group consisted of 30 children. Instrument was English language test consisting of vocabulary development, spelling test, sentence writing and creative writing. Pre-test was given to both the groups and the results were recorded. The control group was taught using conventional method of teaching; while the experimental group was taught using experiential learning strategy. After intervention of experiential learning strategy, a post test was conducted. Findings of the study showed that the children instructed using experiential learning technique achieved significantly higher scores on English subject test as compared to the students who were taught with conventional teaching method. It was suggested that experiential learning strategy may be used to improve performance in vocabulary development, spelling test and creative writing at preschool stage.
 Keywords: Experiential learning, Teaching strategy, Vocabulary development, English language learning

Null Subject Sentences in ‘Because’ Subordinate Clauses and L1 Transfer in English Writing by Korean Learners of English

The null subject parameter holds significant implications for L1 transfer in language acquisition. English learners whose native language permits null subject sentences often exhibit a tendency to omit subjects in their English expressions (Tati, 2021). This research investigates whether Korean English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners demonstrate a similar inclination toward using null subject sentences in their English writing. This inquiry is particularly pertinent as Korean, akin to Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese, is characterized by subject-drop features. Moreover, the study endeavors to elucidate the impact of the topic-prominence feature in Korean on the writing proficiency of Korean learners of English. To achieve these objectives, a thorough analysis was conducted on 20 compositions written by advanced EFL learners enrolled in an all-English University Program in South Korea. The error analysis revealed that 16 students consistently made subject-omission errors, with a pronounced frequency in subordinate clauses introduced by ‘because.’ Intriguingly, these learners also employed fragment ‘because’-clauses as a means to organize information in a topic-comment structure. This study contributes valuable insights into the manifestation of L1 transfer in the writing skills of Korean EFL learners and highlights the nuanced ways in which topic-prominence influences their English language performance.

Взгляды студентов университетов на применение совместного обучения на занятиях по коммуникативным навыкам владения английским языком

The main purpose of the study is to investigate students’ views about the implementation of collaborative learning in English classes. Collaborative learning helps students to improve their English language performance. To achieve this objective, observation and questionnaires were employed. The quantitative data were analyzed using percentage and frequency. Theme analysis technique was used to analyze the qualitative data. The result of the study indicated that most students’ applied collaborative learning, but the type of collaborative learning they are applying is not collaborative learning. Most of the teachers simply make their students to sit side by side to talk with each other as they do their individual assignments, and some teachers assign a task to groups. Then, one or two of the group members do the work and the other group members get equal credit. Although each of these is important in collaborative learning, they do not qualify collaborative learning rather traditional group learning. In addition to this, some students were not playing their roles as they are expected. Teachers and other concerned bodies ought to deliver sorts of orientations to the students about the importance of collaborative learning to maximize students’ views before implementing collaborative learning.