Research Learning style preferences and English Language Proficiency of first year Economics students at University of Economics – Technology for Industries, Vietnam (Published)
This research involves investigating the learning style preferences and English language proficiency of Economics students as basis for language learning enhancement program. This has been done by descriptive-correlational research method. 162 students at UNETI, Vietnam selected through the use of stratified random sampling answered the Perceptual Learning Style Preference Questionnaire and a 50-item English proficiency test. Frequency counts and percentages, central tendency, T-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation were used to analyze the gathered data. Finding revealed that group learning style dominates among the students, followed by other learning styles. In term of English language proficiency, most of the respondents are moderately proficient. There exists a significant relationship between their learning styles and their English language proficiency. On differences in the English language proficiency of the students, significant differences exist in tests. Finally, significant relationship exists between visual, tactile, group, and individual learning styles of the respondents and their English language proficiency.
Keywords: Economics, English language proficiency, Industries, Technology, University, Vietnam, first year Economics students, learning styles, preferences
Challenges and Implications of Virtual e-learning Platform in EFL Context: Perceptions of Teachers (Published)
The research paper focuses on the challenges and implications of virtual e-learning platform in EFL teaching-learning contexts. Considering technological innovations and their impact on classroom instruction, this paper provides an overview of the effectiveness of e-learning platforms from the pedagogical point of view. The study was conducted in Jouf University, Saudi Arabia. The university has embarked upon the utilization of the Blackboard Collaborate software, an additional e-learning platform to improve the quality of education at all levels. The study was conducted using a questionnaire and captured the insights and perceptions of 20 EFL teachers. The study reveals that the e-learning platform is a potential tool that can facilitate the learners to feel at ease and create a stress-free environment.
Keywords: Blackboard collaborate, Teachers, Technology, e-learning platform
Enhancing Language Learning Through Technology (Published)
This paper examines current research and developments in the field of language learning and teaching, focusing on role of educational technology and digital communications in acquisition of new or second languages. The purpose of the study is to consider the impact of evolving technologies, including devices such as computers, smartphones, and tablets, as well as more traditional media such as film, photography and written or printed materials. A review of current literature and studies in language learning is presented, describing works on the ethics, values and culture of the internet. The general research question is, How can new technology be used to enhance language learning by second language and foreign language learners? The study employs an interpretivist, qualitative research method, and concludes that digital technologies constitute a new literacy and essential component of language learning and communication. Further research into the various tools and techniques of digital instruction is recommended.
Keywords: Digital, Internet, Language Learning, Teaching, Technology
Balancing Technology with Pedagogy in English Language Classroom: Teachers’ Perspective (Published)
With the tremendous advancement in computer-assisted language learning (CALL), English language instructors have started an exciting journey of utilizing modern technological applications to equip students with the necessary tools to boost their language skills. The current study aimed at exploring the university English language instructors’ perceptions of the optimal use of technology in an EFL context as many teachers misconceive the philosophy behind the integration of technology and overestimate the value of using technology without considering its relevance, necessity and applicability. Therefore, Technology, Pedagogy and Content Knowledge (TPACK) model was used to investigate the instructors’ beliefs and practices relevant to language teaching through technology. Data were collected through a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. One hundred and sixty-four English instructors, from different Saudi universities, participated in the study. The findings of the study revealed that instructors who merely seek the blind application of technology regardless of content, students’ needs, learning styles, and methodology will cease to be pedagogically effective. The findings will pave the way for reshaping the instructors’ teaching beliefs, practices and approach of integrating technology in an EFL class. The study highlighted the importance of developing the instructors’ technological skills that are needed to launch new applications and providing concrete examples of how to successfully integrate technology in language instruction.
Keywords: EFL Instructors, Pedagogy, TPACK Model, Technology