Language Learning Programs Research Articles

Integrating Extensive Reading Strategy Training with Innovative Technologies: fsQCA on EFL Learner Autonomy and Vocabulary Acquisition

The integration of extensive reading strategies and innovative technologies has become a vital component of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) education. While extensive reading (ER) fosters learner autonomy and vocabulary acquisition by promoting engagement with diverse reading materials, the incorporation of digital tools—such as e-books, online platforms, and mobile applications—has further enhanced accessibility and interactivity. However, gaps remain in the understanding of how these elements interact and which configurations yield optimal outcomes for learners, especially in terms of fostering self-directed learning and vocabulary growth. This research addresses these gaps by employing fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to examine the interplay between extensive reading, metacognitive strategies, and technological tools. Data were collected from 130 EFL learners through pre- and post-tests, questionnaires assessing learner autonomy, and classroom observations. Results reveal three effective pathways to learner autonomy and vocabulary acquisition: (1) comprehensive integration of extensive reading, technology, and metacognitive strategies; (2) focus on traditional reading and metacognitive strategies without technology; and (3) technology and metacognitive strategies without extensive reading. Extensive reading was found to be the most impactful strategy, achieving the highest correlation with autonomy and vocabulary acquisition. The study concludes that a balanced approach, combining extensive reading, metacognitive strategies and selective use of technology, offers the most effective framework for fostering EFL learners' autonomy and vocabulary development. These findings provide valuable insights for educators and policymakers when designing language-learning programs tailored to diverse learner needs while ensuring the strategic use of both traditional and digital methodologies.

Idāratu Tanfīżi Barnāmaji Ta’līmi al-Lughah al-`Arabiyyah fi Markazi al-Lughah al-`Arabiyyah bi Puncak Darussalam Madura

This study aims to determine the management of the implementation of the Arabic language learning program at Markaz Lughah Arabiyah Puncak Darussalam Madura and also to find out the problems faced in the implementation of the program. This research uses descriptive qualitative method. Data collection through observation techniques, semi-structured interviews and documentation. While analyzing the data through the analysis theory of Miles, Huberman, and Saldana which consists of data condensation, data presentation and conclusion drawing. The results showed that the management of the implementation of the Arabic language learning program at Markaz Lughah Arabiyah Puncak Darussalam Madura went well, seen from the activities of the students were very enthusiastic in participating in the program, namely the students could follow the activities until the specified time limit. In order to maximize language learning, Arabic is used as a daily communication tool. The problems faced by the markaz are the lack of teaching staff, limited facilities and learning resources, and limited learning time which affects the effectiveness of the learning process. Despite the shortcomings, the learning program held by the markaz can still run smoothly and well, where within the specified time (two semesters / one year), the students have been able to master Arabic well.

Design and Implementation of a Data Preprocessing Automatic Assessment Module in Jupyter Notebook

In data analysis, the preprocessing step is crucial, directly impacting the accuracy and reliability of results. While data preprocessing using a programming language offers capacity, speed, and reproducibility advantages, the complexity of learning programming languages and the scarcity of supportive educational tools pose significant challenges. This study introduces the Data Preprocessing Automatic Assessment (DPAA) module, designed to facilitate learning data preprocessing through programming. The DPAA module, developed using Python and Pandas, utilizes a model answer-based assessment method. It features a self-assessment mechanism that simultaneously displays the outputs of the student’s code alongside the model answer, highlighting discrepancies for visual emphasis. Additionally, it includes an automatic evaluation method that compares and evaluates results after transforming them into an array. Furthermore, feedback is provided when the student's answer is incorrect. An example was constructed to validate the DPAA module based on a tutorial from the official Pandas website. The DPAA module, along with examples, was reviewed by informatics teachers at a high school for gifted students and was confirmed for its effectiveness. The DPAA module is expected to support the learning of data preprocessing syntax using Pandas, thereby aiding in the broader application of Python in data analysis. This innovative tool promises to enhance educational outcomes by making the learning process more interactive and supportive, ultimately fostering a deeper understanding of data preprocessing techniques.

Investigating Aptitude in Learning Programming Language Using Machine Learning and Natural Language Processing

This study investigates the relationship between prerequisite courses and skill acquisition in programming education. It proposes a case study examining cognitive, natural language, and mathematical aptitude indicators as predictors of programming performance. Analyzing data from 1238 undergraduate students at Riphah International University, the research employs Machine Learning models to predict outcomes, achieving high R2 scores and low Mean Squared Error rates. A zero-shot text classification model identifies required aptitude skills: 62% cognitive, 24% natural language, and 14% mathematical. These skills are mapped to predicted programming course scores, offering a new approach to understanding programming language aptitude. The study aims to bridge the gap between prerequisite courses and subsequent skill development, contributing valuable insights to computing education curriculum design.

ChatGPT for language learning: assessing teacher candidates’ skills and perceptions using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM)

ABSTRACT Artificial Intelligence (AI) is projected to have a significant impact on education and language learning in the forthcoming years. Large Language Models (LLMs) such as ChatGPT offer language skill improvement and personalized feedback, but concerns exist over ethics, reliability, and over-reliance on technology. This mixed-methods study, based on convenience sampling (n = 58), examines EFL teacher candidates’ critical skills and perceptions of using ChatGPT for language learning. Participants completed four collaborative writing tasks: text production and text refinement in Spanish (L1) and English (L2). Then, they compared and evaluated the results included in an anonymised document alongside ChatGPT-generated versions. Text analysis including SC (Sentence Count), ASL (Average Sentence Length), and VOCD (Vocabulary-Size-Dependent), was used to compare all of the written samples (human and machine). Statistical data from pre–post-delayed surveys, including a section on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), and focus group interviews were analyzed. The study employed ChatGPT-4 for generating the machine-written samples. The results showed no relationship between language nativeness (L1, L2) and participants’ critical skills in distinguishing human versus machine-generated output. However, a bias was observed in the misattribution of machine-generated texts based on different parameters (SC and ASL). The findings indicate positive perceptions regarding Perceived Usefulness (PU) and Behavioural Intention (BI) but concerns on accuracy and reliability were raised. The originality of this research lies in its comprehensive examination of EFL teacher candidates’ critical skills and perceptions of ChatGPT, shedding light on the implications and potential of using AI technology in language learning and teacher education programmes.

English Learning Anxiety, Learner Engagement, And Intervention Strategies Among Chinese Undergraduates

This study determined the relationships among English learning anxiety, learner engagement, and intervention strategies to propose a language learning program to improve the teaching quality and learning effect among Chinese undergraduates. The research employed a descriptive quantitative method and selected 477 undergraduates from a Chinese university to participate in an online questionnaire survey. The research conducted a pilot test to ensure reliability. The findings indicated that women were more inclined to participate in the survey and the respondents decreased with higher grades. Liberal arts students had the highest participation due to the higher proportion of female students in liberal arts, science, and engineering. The results showed a positive and supportive attitude towards English learning anxiety, learner engagement, and intervention strategies among Chinese EFL undergraduates. Regarding English learning anxiety, it is found that anxiety in communication is higher than anxiety in the negative evaluation and English classroom, which implies that the language learner has anxiety in English learning, especially in communication. Cognitive and emotional engagement are more important than behavioral engagement. The findings suggest that cognitive and emotional engagement promotes English learning effectiveness far beyond behavioral engagement. Concerning intervention strategies, respondents considered classroom intervention to be more important than behavioral intervention and cognitive intervention. It was found that the higher the English learning anxiety, the lower the learning engagement; the higher the English learning anxiety, the higher the intervention strategies; and the higher the learner engagement, the lower the intervention strategies. Therefore, the study offered recommendations to various stakeholders. This includes policymakers, curriculum designers, college language teachers and learners. A language learning program has been proposed to strengthen language teaching and learning among Chinese undergraduates.

Chinese EFL Learners’ Emotional Intelligence, Academic Boredom and Class Participation

This study investigates the relationship among emotional intelligence, academic boredom, and classroom participation of Chinese non-English major college students in English learning. Utilizing a quantitative and descriptive design, data was gathered from freshmen and sophomores majoring in economics, management, and fine arts at a regional university in Yuncheng, China through a questionnaire survey. The questionnaire comprised sections on emotional intelligence, academic boredom, and class participation, aligning with emotional intelligence theory, academic boredom theory, and class participation theory, respectively. The findings reveal significant correlations: emotional intelligence is inversely related to academic boredom, indicating higher emotional intelligence corresponds to lower academic boredom levels. Affective intelligence positively correlates with class participation, suggesting higher affective intelligence is linked to increased participation. Conversely, academic boredom negatively impacts class participation, as greater boredom is associated with reduced engagement. These results hold vital implications for enhancing English learning effectiveness and student well-being, offering valuable insights for educators. The study proposes a language-learning program focused on enhancing emotional intelligence and engagement to alleviate academic boredom. Recommendations include incorporating emotional intelligence training in universities, diversifying classroom activities, fostering cross-cultural communication opportunities, and leveraging technology for emotional intelligence and engagement promotion. Future research should expand sample sizes and school majors to deepen understanding and integrate technology tools into teaching practices and curriculum design.

The Foundational Role of Auditory Skills in Language Mastery

This study examines the critical role of listening in foreign language acquisition, highlighting how dedicated listening practice enhances comprehension, speaking fluency, and overall communication skills. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines a literature review with an observational study of 30 university students engaged in structured listening activities over six weeks. Results indicate a 25% improvement in listening comprehension scores, as well as increased confidence and pronunciation accuracy among participants. These findings underscore the value of incorporating varied auditory resources, such as native dialogues and multimedia, into language learning programs. The study concludes that listening-based practice bridges theoretical knowledge and practical application, facilitating more effective and meaningful language use.

METHOD OF LEARNING A FOREIGN LANGUAGE BY DMITRIY PETROV

This article explores the method developed by renowned Russian polyglot Dmitriy Petrov, who created a language-learning program designed to teach any foreign language in just 16 lessons. I will examine the advantages and disadvantages of his methodology and highlight key elements that can be adopted for effective language learning. Dmitriy Petrov's Method of Learning Languages: A Practical Approach to Rapid Fluency.

Cognitive Approach to the Use of Multimedia in Maharoh Kalam Learning

Mastery of speaking skills in learning Arabic often faces challenges related to student engagement and the effectiveness of traditional teaching methods. Conventional teaching methods are usually considered less attractive and unable to meet the learning needs of students effectively. This study aims to explore the use of multimedia based on a cognitive approach to improving students' speaking skills in the Special Arabic Language Learning Program (PKPBA) UIN Malang. Qualitative research methods were used, involving in-depth observations and interviews with students and faculty to collect data on the experience and impact of multimedia use. The results showed that multimedia designed with a cognitive approach significantly improved students' speaking skills, increased motivation, and enriched the learning experience. These findings make an important contribution to cognitive theory by demonstrating the practical application of multimedia in language learning, as well as providing guidance for educators in designing more effective learning materials. This research also emphasizes the need for inclusive technology development, attention to ethics, and the protection of users' data. Keywords: Speaking Skills, Multimedia, Cognitive

Factors shaping situated willingness to communicate: A multidimensional perspective in the Indonesian EFL context

The willingness to communicate (WTC) of English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) students requires a complicated process, including motivational, contextual, metacognitive, and communicative factors. Neglecting the intricate interplay of these factors may impede the attainment of desired levels of student WTC, thus underscoring the need for comprehensive investigation. The purpose of this exploratory factor analysis (EFA) is to investigate the complex interplay of motivational, contextual, metacognitive, and communicative factors as predictors of situated WTC in the Indonesian EFL context, which includes variables such as motivation, learner agency, growth language mindset, classroom environment, metacognition, communication confidence, and L2 self-perceived communicative competence (SPCC). We used Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) model analysis in a quantitative study design. An online questionnaire with 50 items adapted from prior studies was distributed to 310 EFL students from multiple universities in Indonesia who had taken English classes. The data revealed that motivation, learner agency, growth language mindset, classroom environment, metacognition, communication confidence, and SPCC are major determinants of students’ WTC. These findings suggest that EFL educators can create language learning programs that encourage active involvement in communication tasks and enhance students’ WTC by recognizing and utilizing the factors that support it. This could lead to more effective and engaging language learning experiences, resulting in increased WTC in the target language. Further discussion focuses on educational consequences and future research recommendations.

International Spouses’ Goals and Investment in Language Learning Programs

International spouses, individuals who accompany a partner studying in a foreign country, are an important source of support for international students and scholars, yet many academic institutions overlook this population. Research indicates that many international spouses benefit from joining language programs; however, there has been no research on how to design such programs to support international spouses. By drawing on the theoretical constructs of investment (Darvin & Norton, 2015) and capital (Bourdieu, 1986), this study investigates the goals of international spouses, the relationship between these goals and English proficiency, and how international spouses perceived the language resources available to them. Semi-structured interviews with 15 (8 female, 7 male) international spouses in the U.S. revealed that the participants viewed English as relevant to their professional, social, and cultural goals, and that various factors influenced which ESL programs they joined. This study concludes with recommendations for designing programs to support international spouses.

Idārah Tanfīdz Barnāmaj Ta’līm Al Lughah Al-‘Arabiyah Litarqiyah Kafāah Al Lughah

Management of implementing the Arabic language learning program at the Al-Muhibbin Islamic Boarding School is a planned process. Because considering the current situation where Arabic has become a necessity for today's society in order to be able to keep up with changing times which are increasingly global and not to be left behind by other countries. Therefore, Arabic language learning programs are very important. This research discusses the management of implementing the Arabic language learning program at the Al-Muhibbin Islamic Boarding School. This research uses a qualitative descriptive method, and data collection is carried out by observation, interviews, and documentation. The results of this research indicate that the implementation of the Arabic language learning program at the Al-Muhibbin Islamic Boarding School is going well. There are two Arabic language learning programs at this Islamic boarding school, namely main activities and additional activities. The main activity in this program is classroom learning. This activity goes through three stages, namely introduction, core activities, and closing activities. Activities are held at 14.00-16.00 and 20.00-22.00. Meanwhile, additional activities are divided into daily activities, namely additional mufrodat and muhadasah al-yaumiyah. The weekly activity is muhadhoroh. The annual activities are FASTABIN and rihlah lughoh. Overall, the management of the implementation of the Arabic language learning program at the Al-Muhibbin Islamic Boarding School reflects a strong commitment to providing useful experiences for the students to improve their Arabic language skills and understanding of religion as evidenced by their enthusiasm when participating in this program, their communication practices using Arabic.

Digital Learning Innovation : Language Collaboration In Tanjungmojo Village

This research aims to develop digital learning innovation through language collaboration in Tanjungmojo Village, where low digital literacy and limited access to quality educational resources are the main problems. Limited foreign language skills among village communities are also an obstacle in keeping up with developments in global technology and communication. To overcome this challenge, the research uses an action research approach by involving the active participation of local communities in the development of digital-based foreign language learning programs. This research was conducted in three main stages: (1) analysis of local needs and potential, (2) development and implementation of a language-based digital learning program, and (3) evaluation of the effectiveness of the program. Data was collected through interviews, participant observation, and questionnaires filled out by program participants and the general public. The research results show that the digital learning program developed succeeded in significantly increasing the participants' digital literacy and foreign language skills. In addition, collaboration between local communities and teaching staff creates an inclusive and sustainable learning environment.The main trends identified in this research include increasing community participation, especially teenagers and young adults, in learning activities, as well as increasing interest in continuing to learn and develop new skills through digital platforms. This research also highlights the importance of community support and technology accessibility for the success of learning programs in rural areas. The MIT-18 KKN program in Tanjungmojo Village involved 97 students with learning methods through bilingual digital films and group discussions, which encouraged high participation and involvement. Despite challenges in content retention and technical limitations, this initiative shows great potential in improving education in rural areas and bridging the existing educational gap.

The Role of Technology in Facilitating EFL Learning: A Case Study Approach

This research investigates how digital tools and resources are integrated into English as a Foreign Language (EFL) education to enhance learning outcomes. The study employs qualitative through interviews, questionnaires, and classroom observations. Interviews with 6 lecturers and 74 students as the samples provide in-depth insights into their experiences and perceptions. Classroom observations offer real-time evidence of how technology is used in practice, highlighting both its benefits and obstacles. Data is analyzed using thematic analysis for qualitative, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the role of technology in EFL learning at the English Language Learning and Education Study Program of University of Pahlawan Tuanku Tambusai during February to June 2024. The results show that the use of technology has been positively perceived by both students and lecturers, who recognize the ability to make learning more accessible, interactive, and tailored to individual needs. The widespread use of tools such as language learning apps, online resources, and multimedia presentations has contributed to more effective and enjoyable learning experiences. Despite these benefits, the research also identified significant challenges, including technical issues, inconsistent access to devices, and varying levels of digital literacy among students. These challenges sometimes hinder the seamless integration of technology into EFL learning. The technology has greatly contributed to the success of EFL learning at Universitas Pahlawan Tuanku Tambusai, addressing the challenges identified will be crucial for maximizing its potential. By investing in better support systems, infrastructure, and training, the university can further enhance the effectiveness of technology in fostering English language proficiency among its students.

EMPOWERING LANGUAGE LEARNING: THE CRITICAL ROLE OF MODERATORS IN DUOLINGO’S GERMAN DISCUSSION BOARDS

Asynchronous discussion boards provide learners with an online platform to collaborate and communicate. This study aims to investigate the pivotal role of moderators in managing and enhancing the dynamics of asynchronous discussion boards in Duolingo’s German language learning environment. There are nearly nine million individuals who use Duolingo to learn German. This study implemented netnography to examine six moderators on Duolingo German language discussion boards. From an initial potential pool of 12 participants, two participants were chosen at random from three levels of engagement: high, moderate, and lower, for a total of six moderators. Moderators who commented at least 150 times were considered highly engaged; those with at least 25 comments were moderately engaged, and those with fewer than 25 comments were lower engaged. Data collection involved analyzing comments posted between 2013 and 2022. The study examined the frequency of comments, number of language badges, German course level, total posts, and years using Duolingo. However, activities occurring ‘behind the scenes,’ such as deleting inappropriate comments and providing feedback to developers, were not analyzed. The analysis covered 26 discussion boards, with five boards per participant, except for one user. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns in moderator behavior and its impact on learner engagement. This methodology supported the investigation of how Duolingo German moderators oversee asynchronous discussion boards, allowing us to analyze and understand the evolving needs and engagement levels of learners within this online community. The results of the netnography showed that there were three themes. The findings support past research, which suggests the moderator role extends beyond mere oversight, providing management of online discussion boards, contributing significantly to the success of language learning programs, and enhancing the overall learning experience.

Idarat Barnamij Ta’lim al-Lughah al-‘Arabiyah fi al-Muassasah al-Dauriyah Markaz al-‘Arabiyah Pare Kediri

The background of this research is based on the importance of effective management in Arabic language learning programs, especially in language course institutions that play a significant role in developing Arabic language proficiency in Indonesia. Markaz Arabiyah Pare Kediri is recognized as one of the leading centers for Arabic language learning, but in-depth research on the management of its programs remains limited. Therefore, this study aims to analyze and evaluate the management of the Arabic language learning program at Markaz Arabiyah, focusing on effectiveness, curriculum relevance, and innovation in teaching methods. The research method used is a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data was collected through in-depth interviews with administrators, teachers, and students, as well as direct observation and document analysis related to program management. The data analysis techniques include data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing/verification. The objective of this research is to understand the management of the Arabic language learning program at Markaz Arabiyah, including its planning, organizing, implementation, supervision, and evaluation. The research results indicate that the program management at Markaz Arabiyah Pare has successfully created a conducive learning environment that supports the enhancement of students' Arabic language proficiency. However, some aspects need improvement, such as aligning the curriculum with global needs and enhancing the quality of teacher training.

Bilinguals outperform trilinguals in implicit language aptitude: the mediating role of selective attention

ABSTRACT A mounting number of individuals engage in the simultaneous learning of multiple foreign languages. Prior research has underscored the advantages of bilingualism on foreign language aptitude (FLA). However, the impact of multilingual experience on the constituents of FLA, namely explicit language aptitude (ELA) and implicit language aptitude (ILA), along with the cognitive mechanisms underlying these effects, remain less explored. This study seeks to fill this gap by examining the potential multilingual influence on FLA constituents and the possible mediating role of cognitive abilities such as selective attention and working memory. Our research involved 82 Chinese college students, aged between 17 and 24, equally distributed into two cohorts: Chinese-English bilinguals and Chinese-English-Japanese trilinguals (41 per group). The results showed that bilinguals outperformed trilingual learners in terms of ILA performance, with selective attention fully mediating the relationship between multilingualism and ILA. This work is pioneering in identifying the crucial role of selective attention in linking multilingualism and ILA, thereby advancing our understanding of the cognitive underpinnings of the relative bilingual efficiency in language aptitude. The insights are invaluable for educational practice, suggesting that language learning programmes should be designed to optimise cognitive resources in multilingual learners.

Use of the Alice Visual Programming Environment in Programming Education : A Descriptive Case Study

The process of learning a programming language is seen as complicated, especially for those who first start to learn programming language. For this reason, visual programming tools have begun to be used in educational environments. Visual programming tools purpose to concretize abstract programming language concepts. Alice program is one of the visual programming tools. The aim of this study is to determine the effects of the Alice program on programming learning in the education environment. The study group was 18 freshman students enrolled in the Object Based Programming I course at the vocational school computer technology department. The study lasted 8 weeks, with 4 hours each week. The teaching was realized on Gagne’s nine events of instruction model. At the end of the teaching process, two focus group interviews were conducted with the students to determine the obstructing and facilitating factors in using the Alice program. This study was utilized a descriptive case study. The data were analyzed by using the content analysis. When the results were examined; It was seen that the Alice program makes learning the basic code concepts easy and understanding programming logic, and increases the desire to learn programming. However, it was stated that the practicality of writing code could not be improved because code could not be written in the Alice program. It is thought that employing the Alice program is beneficial for enhancing comprehension of programming logic.

AI-driven English Language Learning Program and Academic Writing Integrity in the Era of Intelligent Interface

AI-driven English Language Learning Program and Academic Writing Integrity in the Era of Intelligent Interface