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Article
Publication date: 27 February 2024

Wagdi Rashad Ali Bin-Hady and Jamal Kaid Mohammed Ali

This study probed the impact of using learning technologies (LT) on developing Yemeni English as a foreign language (EFL) students' autonomy and creativity toward English language…

Abstract

Purpose

This study probed the impact of using learning technologies (LT) on developing Yemeni English as a foreign language (EFL) students' autonomy and creativity toward English language learning. Also, the research gauged if LT impacts learners' autonomy and creativity across gender and university-type variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized a valid and reliable questionnaire, comprising 20 close-ended items, which was administered to 109 Yemeni EFL undergraduate students.

Findings

The researchers found that LT positively impacts learners' creativity and autonomy, with mean scores of 4.09 and 3.86, respectively. Furthermore, the results showed a medium correlation between creativity and autonomy with a correlation coefficient of r = 0.63 at a probability of Sig = 0.00. Likewise, the results revealed that LT impacted female learners' creativity more significantly than their male counterparts (Sig = 0.047). Nevertheless, no significant differences were found pertaining to the impact of LT on students' autonomy across public and private universities (Sig = 0.213).

Social implications

EFL teachers are advised to encourage their students' autonomy and creativity throughout their lifelong learning journey in order to adapt to the ever-changing demands of the world.

Originality/value

This study investigates the impact of learning technology on Yemeni EFL students' autonomy and creativity.

Details

Library Hi Tech, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0737-8831

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 March 2024

Rida Afrilyasanti, Eko Suhartoyo and Utami Widiati

Through the action research study, this paper aims to examine how e-portfolios improve students’ critical, reflective and creative thinking as part of higher-order thinking skills…

Abstract

Purpose

Through the action research study, this paper aims to examine how e-portfolios improve students’ critical, reflective and creative thinking as part of higher-order thinking skills (HOTS). Besides, this paper also explores how e-portfolios enhance students’ speaking skills. The study is carried out to improve the current state by identifying and solving problems in specific contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

This investigation was designed to seek the improvement of the students’ higher-order thinking and speaking skills after the implementation of the e-portfolio. Action research was chosen because action research is suitable to bring change and improvement in the system or assume to bring progress in the system. This study was designed in two phases, featuring reflection and connection between previous and new data.

Findings

By completing this action research study, the authors assisted students in improving their higher-order thinking and speaking skills. The improvement was related to the indicators for learning success, which were explained in this research. The HOTS criteria include the capacity to analyze essential facts and arguments that the students presented in their spoken works logically and critically.

Research limitations/implications

HOTS encompasses critical, logical, creative and metacognitive thinking skills. Future research should go further into the usage of e-portfolios in the development of students’ metacognitive capacities. Moreover, because this investigation was carried out using action research methods, it is crucial to recognize that no generalizability can be offered for the findings.

Practical implications

The study’s findings should also benefit practitioners and instructors endeavoring to enhance students’ e-portfolios, critical thinking and digital skills in the classroom.

Social implications

The discussion focuses on important development topics. Everyone, not just students, should be encouraged to participate in creating and developing our technological future. The analysis offers unique and essential perspectives into what to explore for such a substantial attempt as implementing digital technology, specifically to construct an e-portfolio.

Originality/value

Despite the widespread usage of e-portfolios in English as a foreign language (EFL) instruction, there is a lack of research on how e-portfolios can enhance EFL students’ HOTS and speaking abilities. Hence, this study addresses a deficiency in existing research by examining the potential of e-portfolios to enhance students’ HOTS and oral communication skills within the context of EFL.

Details

Interactive Technology and Smart Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-5659

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 18 March 2024

Rasha Abdullah Alshaye, Amr Selim Wannas and Mohamed Saeed Bakr

The search for new techniques to teach English nowadays has been more than ever. These techniques have to be interesting and enjoyable in order to lower the anxiety levels of…

Abstract

Purpose

The search for new techniques to teach English nowadays has been more than ever. These techniques have to be interesting and enjoyable in order to lower the anxiety levels of students when learning English (Bakhsh, 2016). That is why many scholars and teachers look forward to integrating technology into language teaching. Social media platforms (SMPs) are among these techniques since millions of people around the world utilize them for daily interaction. Yet, teaching English for specific purposes (ESPs) relies on learners’ needs and employs an eclectic approach in delivering its course content. For this reason, the current study reviewed articles that tackled the topic of teaching or learning ESP from SMPs so as to uncover their effect and the attitude or motivation of learners.

Design/methodology/approach

The researchers used the PRISMA flowchart model in order to identify, screen and include articles in the study.

Findings

The results revealed that SMPs are effective in teaching and learning ESP writing, speaking and vocabulary. Yet, the included studies showed that learners’ attitude toward SMPs is positive as they believe that they are motivating and interesting.

Research limitations/implications

Some aspects of social media have turned out to be beneficial in the learning process and they need further investigation from ESP practitioners and scholars.

Originality/value

According to the study, it is crystal clear that the various social networks and platforms are beneficial and helpful for improving ESP productive skills.

Details

Journal of Innovative Digital Transformation, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2976-9051

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 February 2024

Yu-Shan Hsu, Yu-Ping Chen, Flora F.T. Chiang and Margaret A. Shaffer

Integrating anxiety and uncertainty management (AUM) theory and theory of organizing, this study aims to contribute to the knowledge management literature by examining the…

Abstract

Purpose

Integrating anxiety and uncertainty management (AUM) theory and theory of organizing, this study aims to contribute to the knowledge management literature by examining the interdependent and bidirectional nature of knowledge transfer between expatriates and host country nationals (HCNs). Specifically, the authors investigate how receivers’ cognitive response to senders’ behaviors during their interactions becomes an important conduit between senders’ behaviors and the successful transfer of knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used the actor partner interdependence model to analyze data from 107 expatriate-HCN dyads. The authors collected the responses of these expatriate-HCN dyads in Shanghai, Taipei, Hong Kong, Vietnam, South Korea, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and India.

Findings

Receivers’ interaction anxiety and uncertainty, as a response to senders’ relationship building behaviors, mediate the relationship between senders’ relationship building behaviors and successful knowledge transfer. When senders are expatriates, senders’ communication patience and relationship building behaviors interact to reduce the direct and indirect effects of both receivers’ interaction anxiety and uncertainty. However, when senders are HCNs, the moderation and moderated mediation models are not supported.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the knowledge management literature by investigating knowledge transfer between expatriates and HCNs using an interpersonal cross-cultural communication lens. The authors make refinements to AUM theory by going beyond the sender role to highlighting the interdependence between senders and receivers in the management of anxiety and uncertainty which, in turn, influences the effectiveness of cross-cultural communication. The study is also unique in that the authors underscore an important yet understudied construct, communication patience, in the successful transfer of knowledge.

Details

Journal of Knowledge Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1367-3270

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 April 2024

Joyce Shaffer and Freda Gonot-Schoupinsky

The purpose of this paper is to meet Dr Joyce Shaffer, PhD, ABPP, Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Washington.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to meet Dr Joyce Shaffer, PhD, ABPP, Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Washington.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study is presented in two sections: a positive autoethnography written by Joyce Shaffer, followed by her answers to ten questions.

Findings

In this positive autoethnography, Shaffer shares her life story and reveals numerous mental health and positive aging recommendations and insights for us to reflect on.

Research limitations/implications

This is a personal narrative, albeit from someone who has been a clinical psychologist and active in the field of aging for many decades.

Practical implications

A pragmatic approach to aging is recommended. According to Shaffer, “those of us who can recognize the beat of the historical drummer can harvest the best of it and learn from the rest of it.”

Social implications

Positive aging has strong social implications. Shaffer considers that it is not only about maximizing our own physical, mental, emotional and social health but also about maximizing that of others, to make our world a better place for everyone.

Originality/value

Positive aging can be experienced despite adversity. As Shaffer says, “Adversity used for growth and healed by love is the answer.”

Details

Mental Health and Social Inclusion, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-8308

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 February 2024

Mohamed Mousa, Rami Ayoubi and Vesa Puhakka

This paper aims to answer the question: To what extent should neurodiverse students experience improved access to public universities in Egypt and why?

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to answer the question: To what extent should neurodiverse students experience improved access to public universities in Egypt and why?

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic qualitative research method was used with data collected through semi-structured interviews with 44 educators in four universities in Egypt. A thematic approach was implemented to analyze the collected data.

Findings

The addressed educators believe that greater representation of neurodiverse students in their schools should be a priority for the following four reasons: first, neurodiverse students represent a promising new market segment schools could benefit from; second, recruiting more neurodiverse students represents a chance for schools and faculties to prove the social role they can undertake; third, schools can benefit from the unique skills many neurodiverse students have, particularly in mathematical and computational skills; and fourth, the greater the representation of neurodiverse students, the more research projects and funding opportunities educators can obtain.

Originality/value

This paper contributes by filling a gap in diversity management, higher education and human resources management in which empirical studies on the representation of neurodiverse individuals in public universities have been limited so far.

Details

Higher Education, Skills and Work-Based Learning, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-3896

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 February 2024

Chinaza Solomon Ironsi

This study aims to explore the perceptions of language learners and instructors on using augmented reality (AR) in a hybrid learning environment.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the perceptions of language learners and instructors on using augmented reality (AR) in a hybrid learning environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Mixed-method research design was used to elicit information from 62 participants on the study’s objective. Data were collected and analyzed to examine the participants’ views on using AR in language teaching in a hybrid environment.

Findings

This study unveils that while most studies acknowledge AR as an effective instructional delivery, students and instructors perceive some setbacks. Other novel insights provided by this study reveal necessities to consider before implementing AR in classroom settings.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides insights into the widely reported effectiveness of AR in the English language-teaching domain. This study suggests that considering the dispositions of learners and instructors toward digitally enhanced learning, using AR without good teaching practices and approaches may not yield expected learning outcomes.

Originality/value

This study advances scientific knowledge on the use of AR in hybrid learning models by providing empirical evidence to show the perceived effectiveness of AR. It further provides a robust understanding of the pedagogical implications of using AR in classroom settings drawing from diverse lenses. This helps ensure that educational settings that integrate AR consider the novel findings of this study before such implementation.

Details

foresight, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-6689

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 April 2024

Kardi Nurhadi, Yazid Basthomi, Urip Sulistiyo, Utami Widiati and Misdi Misdi

While many works have reported adopting exploratory practice (EP) principles in language teaching research, only a few studies have explored the enactment of EP in an online…

Abstract

Purpose

While many works have reported adopting exploratory practice (EP) principles in language teaching research, only a few studies have explored the enactment of EP in an online extensive reading of students majoring in English education. Given the relative paucity of attention to the use of EP as the practitioner research in English language teaching (ELT), the present EP investigates how students understand online extensive reading practice mediated by online group discussion and extensive reading logs, where the first author served as the online extensive reading practice instructor.

Design/methodology/approach

The exploratory practice focuses on incorporating research into pedagogy and fastens the importance of the quality-of-life in the classroom. The data were collected through students reading logs and semi-structured interviews. The collected data were analyzed using the thematic analysis. In this case, there were six phases including familiarizing with the data, generating initial codes, searching for the themes, reviewing the themes, defining the theme and writing up.

Findings

The findings reveal that online group work driven by EP enables everybody to engage in learning activities. EP assists the students in perceiving their potential and gaining a better awareness of the need to devote themselves to the class. In the EP activities, they work together to build a peaceful situation to advance the quality of learning in EFL classrooms.

Research limitations/implications

The present study’s limitation is the small sample. Apart from that, the research results cannot be generalized to other places.

Practical implications

This study suggests that EP is suitable to create a mutual understanding among the learners and teachers. To conclude, English language competency can be achieved in a pleasant atmosphere through EP.

Originality/value

The present study succeeded in adding new literature studies related to EPs by discussing online group discussions and their challenges during the learning process. These aspects were identified through reading logs and interviews with students. Thus, it focuses on the implementation and challenges of online group discussions.

Details

Qualitative Research Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1443-9883

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 February 2024

Arda Arikan and Mehmet Galip Zorba

This study aims to examine the outcome of an online project to inform preservice English language teachers regarding the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the outcome of an online project to inform preservice English language teachers regarding the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research method was used to understand participants’ overall knowledge. In total, 30 preservice teachers were selected from a larger pool after considering their grade point averages, sex, university affiliations and geographical backgrounds to ensure a balanced distribution and diversity. Qualitative data were collected through written productions, video recordings and a postproject survey.

Findings

Findings revealed that preservice teachers deepened their understanding of SDGs and adopted a positive attitude toward SDGs while increasing their pedagogical awareness and knowledge of teaching English in response to SDGs. They also regarded literary texts as a valuable resource for teaching SDGs.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating that literary works are valuable for educating preservice teachers on integrating SDGs. A detailed overview of the project and its outcomes can guide practitioners and teacher educators in integrating SDGs into their education programs and English language teaching.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 March 2024

Xiaoran Xu and Lei Mee Thien

This study intends to extend the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model by integrating perceived enjoyment as an intrinsic motivation so as to…

Abstract

Purpose

This study intends to extend the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model by integrating perceived enjoyment as an intrinsic motivation so as to investigate factors influencing Chinese undergraduate English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students' intention to use ChatGPT for English learning.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional quantitative survey method research design was used in this study. Data were collected from 432 undergraduate students at two Chinese universities. The data analysis was carried out using SmartPLS 4, a computer software that employs the partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) technique. The analysis of the model was performed in two stages, including the assessment of reflective measurement model and structural model. The PLS predict was utilized to assess the model’s predicting power.

Findings

Findings showed that effort expectancy, performance expectancy, social influence and perceived enjoyment were positively related to Chinese undergraduate EFL learners' intention to use ChatGPT for English learning. Perceived enjoyment mediated the relationships between effort expectancy, performance expectancy, social influence and intention to use ChatGPT for English learning respectively.

Originality/value

Through incorporating the perceived enjoyment as an intrinsic motivation into the UTAUT model to explore factors that impact Chinese undergraduate EFL learners' intention to use ChatGPT for English learning, this study has extended the applicability of the UTAUT model and provide insights into factors affecting students' intention to utilize ChatGPT or other AI-based technologies for English learning.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

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