Eduvelop: Journal of English Education and Development
Journal Title : Eduvelop: Journal of English Education and : Development ISSN : 2597-713X (Print) | 2597-7148 (Online) Editor-in-Chief : Associate Prof. Dr. Muhammad Aswad, M.Pd. Managing Editor : Associate Prof. Dr. Rafiqa, M.Pd. Publisher : Universitas Sulawesi Barat Prefix DOI : 10.31605 Frequency : 3 issues a year | March, July and November URL Web : https://ojs.unsulbar.ac.id/index.php/eduvelop Citation Analysis : Scopus | Google Scholar | Sinta | Dimension Managed by : Publication and Journal Management Centre, : Universitas Sulawesi Barat
Literal Reading in Academic English Texts among EFL Undergraduate Thesis Writers: A Mixed-Method Exploration
This research investigated how EFL undergraduate thesis writers engage in and perceive literal reading when working with academic English texts. An explanatory sequential mixed-method design was employed, involving questionnaire data from 38 undergraduate thesis writers and follow-up interviews with seven purposively selected participants. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, while qualitative data were examined using thematic analysis. The findings indicate that students actively engage in literal reading strategies such as scanning, highlighting, and translation and report strong confidence in locating explicit information, identifying main ideas, and recognizing cohesive ties in academic texts. However, interview data revealed that their reading performance is frequently constrained by limited vocabulary and the structural complexity of academic texts, leading students to rely on compensatory rather than fluent reading practices. Overall, the findings suggest that literal reading remains a foundational yet insufficiently developed component of academic literacy among EFL undergraduate thesis writers. This research contributes to the literature by highlighting the gap between students’ perceived literal reading competence and the actual lexical and structural demands of academic English, underscoring the need for explicit instructional support in vocabulary development and literal reading strategies in higher education contexts.
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Reframing ESP Learning Through Interpersonal Intelligence: Promoting Engagement and Disciplinary Relevance in Islamic Higher Education
English for Specific Purposes (ESP) plays a crucial role in preparing students of Islamic Library and Information Science (ILIS) to access global resources, understand international cataloguing standards, engage with digital information systems, and participate in global academic discourse. However, students’ interest in English learning in many Indonesian Islamic higher education institutions remains limited, often due to language anxiety, limited exposure, and perceived irrelevance to their disciplinary identity. This study seeks to investigate the potential for pedagogical integration of interpersonal intelligence into ESP instruction with the aim of raising student engagement and the subject matter relevance in English learning. Adopting a qualitative case study design, the research was conducted in an ILIS English classroom at UIN Datokarama Palu. Data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with 18 students, and analysis of instructional documents. The data were analysed using thematic analysis involving open, axial, and selective coding procedures, with methodological triangulation to ensure credibility and analytical rigor. The findings reveal that interpersonal intelligence-based strategies such as peer collaboration, dialog interaction, group problem solving, and socially mediated feedback significantly increase students’ engagement, self-confidence, and willingness to use English, as well as create a positive learning environment. More significantly, embedding ILIS specific disciplinary tasks within collaborative activities strengthens students’ professional identity and situational relevance awareness, thereby transforming English learning into a socially mediated and career-oriented practice. This study contributes to ESP scholarship by proposing an identity-integrated interpersonal framework that connects socio-emotional interaction with disciplinary discourse practices. Although limited to a single institutional context, the findings offer empirical insight into how socially constructed ESP environments can sustain engagement and professional readiness in Islamic higher education settings.
Copyright (c) 2026 Eduvelop: Journal of English Education and Development
Balancing Structure and Autonomy: EFL Tutors’ Psychological Perceptions in Web-based Distance Learning
The rapid expansion of web-based distance learning (WBDL) in higher education has significantly changed English as a Foreign Language (EFL) instruction, particularly in universities that implemented a distance learning system where flexibility and technological integration are vital. While most research focuses on technology or students, this study explores how English as a Foreign Language (EFL) tutors at an Indonesian university perceive web-based distance learning. Employing a descriptive qualitative design within an interpretive paradigm conceptually grounded in Qiong's (2017) six-dimension framework, the study analyzes interview data from two experienced tutors. The tutor was intentionally chosen to facilitate an in-depth, rich, and detailed comparative analysis of their subjective psychological perceptions, aligning with the study's interpretive paradigm, which seeks depth over generalizability. The interviews were recorded and transcribed, then thematically analyzed with multiple rounds of open coding, thematic grouping, and interpretive synthesis in order to establish how tutors' perceptions reflected their negotiation between institutional expectations and professional agency. The results illustrate a key tension reflecting the study's central dichotomy: one tutor prioritizes institutional structure and professionalism, while the other emphasizes pedagogical autonomy and learner-centeredness. The study concludes that successful web-based distance learning requires a dynamic psychological balance between the system and autonomy. Practically, these findings suggest that institutions must move beyond mere technical training and provide robust psychological and affective support, recognizing tutors as critical agents in negotiating this balance rather than just as system operators.
Oral Argumentation under Constraints: A Qualitative Study of Critical Thinking in Indonesian Higher Education
This study aims to explore the constraints that hinder the realization of critical thinking in students’ oral argumentation in higher education contexts. The study employed an interpretive qualitative case study design. The participants were four purposively selected lecturers who teach speaking courses emphasizing argumentative discussion at Universitas Muhammadiyah Bone. They had at least one semester of experience facilitating academic speaking activities and were selected through maximum variation sampling to capture diverse instructional perspectives. Data were collected through classroom observations, audio recordings of academic speaking activities, and interviews with lecturers. Thematic analysis was conducted iteratively to identify recurring linguistic, affective, and pedagogical constraints. The findings indicate that students’ oral argumentation is largely dominated by descriptive claims, with limited use of evidence, warrants, and rebuttals, revealing a gap between students’ critical thinking potential and their oral performance. This gap is affected by related language issues, like having a small vocabulary and not speaking smoothly; emotional factors, such as anxiety and fear of being judged; and teaching conditions, like not having enough training in argumentation and support for academic reading and writing. The study concludes that critical thinking in oral argumentation should be understood as a context-dependent and discursive practice rather than merely an individual cognitive ability. So, the research highlights the importance of teaching methods that combine language skills, emotional support, and clear training in argumentation to help improve critical thinking through speaking in higher education.
Integrating Culturally Responsive Teaching in The Development of Digital Students’ Worksheet for EFL Writing
This study aims to develop interactive e-worksheets as a learning medium for narrative text material for grade XI students using the ADDIE model. Based on the analysis of teachers and students, it was found that students often have difficulty in understanding the structure and elements of narrative texts and lack interest in traditional learning. Therefore, e-worksheets were developed by utilizing digital technology through the Liveworksheets platform, which provides interactive activities to improve students' writing skills. This e-worksheet is designed with a Contextual Teaching and Learning (CTL) approach and an integration of culturally responsive teaching, which was adapted to the Indonesian cultural context, to make the material easier to comprehend for EFL students. At the implementation stage, the product was tested on students with an average score of 86.61 from student responses, 90.90 from material experts, and 90.38 from media experts, indicating that the product is feasible to use. Evaluation from teachers shows that the use of e-worksheets can improve students' writing skills and motivation in understanding narrative texts. Overall, this study confirms that the implementation of technology-based interactive e-worksheets can serve as an effective and innovative alternative to enhance the quality of narrative text learning in schools. Further, some pedagogical suggestions are also highlighted.
Harnessing Visual Media for EFL Learning: Benefits, Challenges, and Pedagogical Strategies
In English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teaching, the advent of visual media has profoundly impacted education by offering fresh opportunities to motivate learners and explain intricate linguistic ideas. The current research investigated the perceptions of EFL learners at the university level regarding the advantages and disadvantages posed by visual media. A qualitative case study design was employed to gather data through open-ended questionnaires distributed to five purposefully selected students, aiming to capture the full range of a multimedia-informed continuum of proficiency and prior exposure. Thematic analysis revealed three primary themes: (a) visual media significantly enhances engagement and understanding, contributing to more interactive lessons and appreciation of abstract language components; (b) significant challenges like insufficient broadband access, overly complex content far exceeding students’ capabilities, lessons dominated by the need to pre-analyze visuals at the expense of text, and lack of access to certain media presented barriers; and (c) students recommended practical strategies for optimizing visual media use, such as aligning content with cultural and linguistic contexts, incorporating interactive teaching methods, providing offline resources, and enhancing teacher training in multimedia integration. This insight extends the literature, evidencing the simultaneous promise and challenge interactions posed for language learning through visual media. This study enhances the understanding of the impact of media on the efficient utilization of EFL instruction within the frameworks of discourse and paradigms, including balance, context-appropriate use, pathways into the study of sustained and new technological impacts, and multilayered inquiry for technology’s influence over time.
Analysis of Technology Support Needs in Foreign Language Learning Models for Learners with Disabilities to Support the Independent Learning Vocational Program
The Independent Learning (Vocational) Program requires independence and practical skills, such as foreign language proficiency. To ensure that students with disabilities, particularly students who are Deaf (total deafness), can participate in the vocational environment, this study examines the necessary adaptive technologies and strategies. Limited participatory observation in the model trial class and document analysis (RPS and curriculum) were used in this qualitative case study. The focus of the observation was the use of visual media and technology, as well as identifying gaps in existing technological support. The results show that using a learning model is very effective in low-tech visual adaptation driven by lecturers' personal efforts. This includes the preparation of adaptive lesson plans (RPS), captioning, and consistent visualization. However, the analysis found that the high-tech gap results in a significant need for technological support (A4). There are certain communication barriers, particularly in verifying students' spontaneous cues (C1), because real-time voice-to-text conversion applications are not explicitly supported by the curriculum guidelines. To address miscommunication, the integration of real-time assistive tools is a top technological need. To achieve the goal of vocational program independence, adaptive practices must be reinforced with institutional policy mandates that ensure adaptive technology is available and used so that inclusion no longer depends on individual faculty autonomy.
Strategy-Pedagogy Mismatch in Teaching Grammar to Gen Z EFL Learners in West Sulawesi
Despite continuous pedagogical refinement and extensive use of multimedia resources, grammar learning outcomes among EFL learners often remain below academic expectations, particularly in higher education contexts where grammatical accuracy is essential for academic writing. This study aims to investigate the mismatch between grammar teaching strategies and grammar learning strategies among Gen Z EFL learners, and to examine how such mismatch influences grammar learning effectiveness. Employing an explanatory mixed-method design, quantitative data were collected through a grammar learning strategy questionnaire administered to undergraduate students and a grammar teaching strategy inventory completed by the lecturer, while qualitative data were obtained from semi-structured interviews and analysis of grammar-related writing tasks. The findings indicate that learners employ a range of grammar learning strategies, with a strong reliance on technology-mediated strategies. Grammar instruction is characterized by explicit explanation and intensive multimedia use; however, opportunities for interactive practice and application-oriented assessment remain limited. This condition generates strategy–pedagogy mismatch, manifested in instruction–practice mismatch, assessment–application mismatch, and strategy–cognition mismatch. Qualitative evidence shows that although learners perceive grammar instruction as clear and supportive, many struggle to retain grammatical knowledge and apply it independently in writing tasks. These conditions contribute to fragile grammar retention, limited grammar internalization, and cognitive passivity in grammar learning. The study concludes that persistent grammar learning difficulties are not caused by insufficient instructional effort, but by strategy–pedagogy mismatch. Pedagogically, the findings suggest the need for grammar instruction that integrates practice-intensive learning cycles, application-oriented assessment, and pedagogically guided use of digital tools to strengthen grammar retention and promote independent grammatical control among Gen Z EFL learners.
AI Chatbots and EFL Learners’ Risk-Taking in Oral Communication: A Scoping Review
Research examining the role of AI-powered chatbots in promoting risk-taking in oral communication remains limited. This scoping review explored the interplay between AI-powered chatbots, risk-taking, and oral communication development among English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. Guided by the five-stage framework of Arksey and O’Malley and the PRISMA-ScR reporting guidelines, it systematically mapped and synthesized empirical studies retrieved from Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest. The analysis of 24 studies, including 18 on AI chatbots and 6 on risk-taking, generated three main findings. First, AI-powered chatbots effectively improved EFL learners’ oral communication skills by increasing practice opportunities, providing instant feedback, and creating a low-anxiety environment. Second, risk-taking was positively associated with oral proficiency, primarily by increasing the frequency of output and fostering a positive attitude toward errors. Third, a critical synthesis revealed that the core affordances of chatbots align with the key barriers to risk-taking, positioning them as a potential pedagogical practice to encourage risk-taking by reducing anxiety, boosting self-confidence, and prioritizing meaning-focused communication. Overall, the review highlights the importance of chatbot-mediated learning not only as a tool for linguistic practice but also as an affective scaffold that supports learners’ engagement in oral communication. Additionally, the findings underscore the need for chatbot designs that move beyond controlled practice and increase the simulation of real-life, risk-provoking communicative situations. By incorporating open-ended tasks and contextually authentic interactions, chatbots may better prepare learners to transfer risk-taking behaviors from low-stakes digital environments to real EFL classroom contexts.
The Impact of Scrabble Game on EFL Context: Students Interpretation Ability in Vocabulary
This study investigates the effect of the Scrabble teaching method on students’ vocabulary interpretation ability in English instruction for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students at SMAN 1 Kota Bima. Using a quantitative pre-experimental approach with a one-group pretest–posttest design, the study involved class XI IPA. Data were collected through vocabulary interpretation tests administered before and after the implementation of the Scrabble teaching method. The findings reveal that the application of the Scrabble teaching method significantly improves students’ ability to interpret the meaning of English vocabulary by promoting active participation, collaborative learning, and contextual engagement. The effectiveness of the method was supported by appropriate instructional procedures and teaching techniques. However, the findings also indicate that the success of the implementation is highly dependent on teachers’ pedagogical competence in managing classroom activities and integrating game-based instruction effectively. The study concludes that, with proper instructional planning and teacher expertise, the Scrabble teaching method has strong potential to enhance vocabulary interpretation ability and enrich students’ overall learning experience in EFL classrooms.
Multi-Modal Learning Strategies and EFL Speaking Accuracy: Insights from a University Setting
This study investigates the effectiveness of the SAVI (Somatic, Auditory, Visual, Intellectual) method in enhancing the speaking ability of third-semester EFL students at the Muslim University of Indonesia. The research employed a pre-experimental design, utilizing pre-test and post-test assessments to evaluate changes in students’ speaking performance. Thirty-two students participated in the study, with speaking accuracy measured in terms of pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary, and fluency. The findings revealed significant improvements in students’ speaking ability after the SAVI intervention. The mean pre-test score of 2.59 increased to 5.25 in the post-test, and statistical analysis confirmed a significant difference between the two assessments. Students exhibited enhanced articulation, grammatical accuracy, and lexical richness, alongside greater confidence and willingness to participate in oral activities. These results indicate that multi-sensory learning strategies can foster holistic development and strengthen communicative competence, surpassing traditional lecture-based approaches in promoting effective language use. The study highlights the practical implications of integrating SAVI methods into EFL instruction, emphasizing the value of active engagement, real-time feedback, and interactive classroom practices. The findings suggest that educators can achieve measurable improvements in speaking proficiency by employing sensory-based pedagogical interventions. Additionally, the research provides insights for curriculum designers and teacher training programs, advocating for flexible, learner-centered approaches that align with modern communicative language teaching principles.
Development of Environment-Based Contextual Learning Model for improving the English Language Competency of Children with Disabilities in Inclusive Schools
This study aims to develop an environment-based contextual learning model designed to enhance the English language competency of children with disabilities in inclusive schools. The research adopts a research and development (R&D) approach using the ADDIE model (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation). The model emphasizes the use of real-life environmental contexts as learning resources, integrating natural surroundings, school environments, and community-based materials to create meaningful learning experiences. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and performance assessments involving English teachers, students with disabilities, and inclusive education experts. The results indicate that the environment-based contextual learning model effectively increases students’ motivation, participation, and English proficiency, particularly in vocabulary mastery and communicative competence. The model also promotes inclusive interaction and supports differentiated learning strategies tailored to students’ needs and abilities. Overall, this study concludes that environment-based contextual learning provides a practical and inclusive pedagogical framework for improving English language competency among children with disabilities in inclusive educational settings.
Shaping Speaking Skills Through Role-Play: Classroom Dynamics In Workplace Training
The demands of spontaneous and confident communication are still major challenges for adult learners in professional settings. However, role-play is often used in speaking classes that are carried out in academic contexts with homogeneous participants or in certain educational settings. However, there are still limited studies that examine how role-play functions in heterogeneous workplacetrainin contexts involving participants with diverse professional roles,ages, and English proficiency levels. This study aims to explore how classroom dynamics through role-play activities shape speaking skills in workplace English training. A qualitative approach was employed involving fifteen employees at PT Pulp Indonesia from different professional divisions who participated in a ten-session English training program. Data were collected through classroom observation during four role-play sessions and semi-structured interviews, then analyzed through thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s framework. The findings indicate that the speaking development did not occur instantly through task repetition, but emerged through a gradual transformation of classroom dynamics. In the early stages, there is an unequal interaction of participants, dominated by certain participants, anxiety, and lack of confidence, especially in older participants or those with low levels of English proficiency. As the role-play session progresses, emotional tension decreases and interaction patterns become cooperative. Passive participants initiate and show a more spontaneous response. These findings show that the development of speaking skills is formed through the reconstruction of participation patterns and the reduction of psychological barriers in the context of heterogeneous professional training. These findings contribute to the understanding of workplace English pedagogy by highlighting the role of social dynamics and professional hierarchies in shaping participation and the development of speaking skills in the context of training.
Emotional Involvement in EFL Speaking Tasks: Implementing Project-Based Learning in an Indonesian Higher Education Context
Improving students’ ability to speak English confidently and fluently remains a challenge in many higher education institutions, including STKIP YPUP Makassar. Although speaking is a core skill in English education programs, many learners still struggle to express themselves effectively. To address this, Project-Based Learning (PBL) has emerged as a promising method, offering students the chance to actively use language through meaningful and collaborative tasks. This study aims to examine the students’ emotional involvement in learning speaking through Project-Based Learning approach at the students of STKIP YPUP in 2024/2025 academic year. The research method used is descriptive qualitative, with data collection techniques including observation, interviews, documentation, and project outputs produced by the students. This study investigates how PBL influences students' emotional engagement and speaking development in an ESL context. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, the research gathered data through classroom observations, interviews with students, analysis of learning documents, and assessments of various student-led projects such as group presentations, performances, and interviews conducted in English. The results show that integrating PBL into speaking classes not only boosted students’ participation and motivation but also helped them become more confident and expressive in using the language. In addition, students reported feeling more connected to the learning process, and they developed skills such as teamwork, accountability, and critical thinking. Overall, the findings suggest that PBL can be an effective and engaging alternative for improving speaking instruction in higher education ESL settings.
Feedback as a Determinant of Online Assessment Validity: A Multidimensional Analysis in Indonesian EFL Higher Education
Although LMS-based online assessment is widely used, there is a paucity of empirical research studies that have investigated its multidimensional validity from students’ perspectives, especially in Indonesian higher education. The proposed cross-sectional survey research examines students’ perceptions of the validity and quality of online assessment in the English Education Department at Universitas Halu Oleo (UHO) delivered through the E-Green SPADA (Moodle-based) course platform. The study conceptualizes perceived validity based on multidimensional and argument-based validity frameworks that are prominent in contemporary research. A 25-item questionnaire (5-point Likert scale) that included construct validity, assessment fairness, feedback & support, learning impact, and affective impact was administered to a stratified random sample of 120 students during the final week of the semester. Exploratory factor analysis showed a five-factor structure (KMO = 0.89; Bartlett χ²(300) = 1650.3, p < .001), which explained 68.2% of the total variance, with acceptable internal consistency (α = .76–.89). The descriptive results showed that construct validity (M = 4.21, SD = 0.61) and assessment fairness (M = 4.08, SD = 0.65) were highly rated, while feedback & support received relatively low scores (M = 3.49, SD = .79). Feedback & support was the strongest predictor of overall perceived validity (β = .458, p < .001) in multiple regression analysis, and the full model accounted for 62.7% of the variance (R² = .627). These findings provide support for the consequential facet of validity in that the prompt, comprehensive, and accessible feedback can influence students’ confidence in online assessment. The research adds evidence from the Indonesian EFL higher education context and highlights the importance of LMS design features, instructor training, and feedback literacy programs that facilitate dialogic and responsive feedback practices.
Identifying Pronunciation Errors Using English Speaking Management Methods in Tourism-Based Schools
This study aims to identify common pronunciation errors among students in tourism-based schools in Toraja, Indonesia, and assess the potential application of English Speaking Management (ESM) methods as a structured approach to improve pronunciation. With the growing importance of English proficiency in the tourism sector, especially in regions like Toraja, improving pronunciation is crucial for enhancing communication with international visitors. Using a qualitative-collaborative research approach, data were collected through Focus Group Discussions (FGD) with 15 teachers and 30 students. The study revealed that phonemic errors, stress misplacement, and difficulties with consonant clusters were prevalent among students. The implementation of ESM methods, including drilling, role play, and technology integration, showed significant improvements in pronunciation accuracy and students’ speaking confidence. The findings support the potential of ESM as a useful tool in addressing pronunciation challenges and enhancing language learning in tourism-focused educational settings. This research aligns with national agendas to improve education quality and supports SDG goals 4 (Quality Education) and 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth).
Reconceptualizing Problem-Based Learning for Transformative Learning: A Qualitative Study in Higher Education
This study examines the enhancement of the Problem-Based Learning (PBL) method to facilitate transformative learning in higher education students. PBL is esteemed for its capacity to improve critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Transformative learning theory emphasizes critical reflection and viewpoint transformation, providing a foundation for reconceptualizing PBL as an approach that enhances cognitive skills while also altering learners’ worldviews. A qualitative approach was utilized, directed by two research inquiries: 1. What is the learners' experience of the flipped problem-based learning method in promoting transformative learning? 2. What aspects of the PBL approach most significantly facilitate the transformation of learners' perspectives? Data were gathered from 15 university students via semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Thematic analysis was employed to understand the data. The findings identified four principal themes: (1) the confrontation of disorienting dilemmas, (2) critical reflection, (3) dialogic collaboration and peer influence, and (4) alterations in self-perception and learning orientation. The study indicates that intentional redesign of PBL with authentic challenges, systematic reflection, and peer dialogue transcends procedural problem-solving, promoting transformative learning. The findings underscore the significance for educators, curriculum developers, and institutions, stressing the necessity of incorporating transformative learning principles into project-based learning practices.
Task-Based Instruction in Vocational ESP: A Qualitative Inquiry into Lecturers’ Experiences at UKI Toraja
This research explores lecturers’ experiences with implementing Task-Based Instruction (TBI) in teaching English to mechanical engineering students at UKI Toraja. Using a qualitative descriptive design, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with English lecturers involved in the engineering program. Thematic analysis revealed four major findings. First, lecturers expressed positive perceptions toward TBI, noting that task-based activities promoted active learning and made English more relevant to students’ vocational needs. Second, TBI was implemented through authentic, engineering-related tasks such as describing machine parts, explaining work procedures, and presenting technical solutions, although lecturers noted that designing such tasks required additional preparation. Third, challenges emerged in applying TBI, including students’ low English proficiency, limited resources, large class sizes, and time constraints. Finally, lecturers reported that students generally responded positively to TBI, showing higher motivation and engagement when tasks were concrete, visual, and connected to real engineering contexts. Despite existing obstacles, the study concludes that TBI has strong potential to enhance English learning in vocational settings. Recommendations include improving institutional support, enriching teaching resources, and strengthening collaboration between English and engineering lecturers to optimize TBI implementation at UKI Toraja.
Formative Assessment Practiced in Higher Education: Lecturers’ and Students’ Perceptions
Discrepancies between lecturers’ and students’ perceptions of formative assessment can weaken instructional alignment and reduce learning effectiveness in higher education. This study aimed to (1) describe formative assessment practices at STAIN Majene and (2) compare lecturers’ and students’ perceptions across five dimensions: learning objectives, monitoring, feedback, self-assessment, and peer assessment. Using a descriptive quantitative, cross-sectional design, questionnaire data were collected from 20 lecturers and 250 odd-semester students at STAIN Majene. The instrument consisted of 25 items and demonstrated acceptable internal consistency across dimensions, with combined Cronbach’s alpha coefficients ranging from .70 to .83. Descriptive findings revealed that lecturers rated learning objectives (M = 4.38, SD = 0.533) and monitoring (M = 4.02, SD = 0.536) more positively, while students rated feedback most highly (M = 4.40, SD = 0.554). Inferential analysis using Welch’s independent-samples t test showed significant differences in learning objectives, t(21.71) = 8.115, p < .001, and feedback, t(24.51) = -10.289, p < .001, while monitoring and peer assessment did not differ significantly. Self-assessment showed a smaller difference at the .05 level, t(24.51) = -2.374, p = .026. Overall, the findings suggest that formative assessment at STAIN Majene remains stronger in lecturer-led practices than in learner-activating dimensions, particularly peer assessment. As an institutional study situated in a state Islamic higher education context in West Sulawesi, this research contributes empirical evidence on lecturer–student perceptual gaps and offers directions for strengthening learning objective transparency, sustaining effective feedback, and systematizing self- and peer-assessment practices.
Critical Reading Skill Development through Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) Collaboration: A Needs Analysis
This study investigates the integration of collaborative learning within mobile-assisted language learning (MALL) environments to enhance critical reading skills among English Department students in East Kalimantan. The research aims to identify learners’ and lecturers’ needs, wants, and challenges related to critical reading instruction through mobile-based collaboration. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 55 students and 5 lecturers using a 50-item Likert-scale questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, while qualitative responses were coded thematically using ATLAS.ti. The findings reveal that both students and lecturers highly value the incorporation of technology and collaborative activities in fostering critical reading abilities. Over 90% of respondents agreed that MALL enhances engagement, autonomy, and comprehension when combined with peer interaction and authentic materials. However, challenges such as diverse proficiency levels, limited digital resources, and insufficient professional training for lecturers were also identified. The study concludes that designing collaborative MALL frameworks—integrating discussion forums, peer feedback, and adaptive learning tools—can significantly support the development of students’ critical literacy. The results provide a foundation for developing context-specific MALL applications and contribute to the advancement of critical reading pedagogy in higher education
Project-Based Learning as a Transformative Approach to Enhancing EFL Students’ Paragraph Writing Competence
This study investigates the effectiveness of project-based learning (PBL) in enhancing the paragraph writing skills of first-year college students. A total of thirty-one students participated in the research, which utilized a pre-test and post-test design to objectively measure improvements resulting from the instructional intervention. The data collected from both tests were analyzed using SPSS, with descriptive statistical methods applied to evaluate the outcomes. The findings reveal a clear advancement in students’ writing skills following their engagement in project-based learning activities. The mean score for the pre-test was 67.48, while the post-test mean increased to 75.64. This significant improvement suggests that PBL has a positive impact on students’ ability to construct coherent and effective paragraphs. The collaborative nature of PBL was also evident, as students worked together in groups, leveraging a project-based learning assistant to guide them through the writing process. They engaged in drafting, revising, and refining their paragraphs, with particular focus on building strong arguments and supporting them with relevant facts and references. The collaborative environment encouraged peer learning and mutual support, promoting greater engagement and a sense of responsibility among group members. These initial results provide a valuable baseline for future research and instructional practices. They illustrate how project-based learning can not only enhance students’ writing abilities but also cultivate essential skills such as teamwork, analytical thinking, and effective communication. The outcomes of this study suggest that integrating PBL into writing instruction may be a promising approach for educators seeking to improve students’ academic writing performance and foster active, collaborative learning environments.
English Needs Analysis for Technology Students at A Technopreneurship-based University
In the context of rapid digital transformation, English proficiency has become a strategic competency for students in technopreneurship-oriented information technology programs. However, discrepancies remain between students’ current competence and the communicative demands of startup ecosystems. This study aims to identify the specific English language needs of technopreneurship-based IT students using Dudley-Evans and St. John’s (1998) Needs Analysis framework. A descriptive mixed-method design was employed, involving 38 respondents (students, alumni, and industry practitioners). The questionnaire demonstrated strong content validity (S-CVI/Ave=0.98) and acceptable internal consistency across core dimensions. Quantitative findings indicate a substantial gap between Target Situation demands (M=9.16) and Present Situation competence (M=5.08), confirming substantial professional communication “lacks.” Qualitative thematic analysis using NVivo further highlights the prioritization of productive skills, particularly digital content writing and professional complaint handling, as key industry necessities. By systematically mapping findings into the domains of necessities, lacks, and wants, this study contributes to contemporary ESP discussions in digitally mediated and entrepreneurial contexts. The study recommends a hybrid pedagogical model integrating task-based learning and communicative language teaching to enhance authentic task performance and sociolinguistic competence in technology-driven higher education.
Prompt Engineering to CEFR Alignment: Investigating Generative AI for the Creation of English Listening Assessments
Meeting the increasing demand for internationally benchmarked English listening exams is difficult, especially in educational settings with limited resources. In a human–AI collaboration framework, this study investigates the feasibility of using generative artificial intelligence, specifically ChatGPT-4, to support the early development of English listening scripts and test items aligned with the CEFR. Using an exploratory research design, the study generated 20 listening scripts and matching multiple-choice questions across CEFR reference levels A2, B1, B2, and C1 using an iterative prompt engineering technique called Progressive-Hint Prompting (PHP). The produced materials were examined using Text Inspector's descriptive linguistic metrics, which included qualitative assessments of spoken discourse characteristics, topical coverage, and distractor plausibility, as well as lexical profile, readability, and script length. The results show that when guided by structured prompts and ongoing human evaluation, ChatGPT-4 can perform well as a drafting aid. The created scripts demonstrated systematic linguistic variance across CEFR reference levels, particularly in lexical range and text complexity. Nevertheless, several drawbacks were noted, including unequal topical distribution, decreased pragmatic naturalness at higher competence levels, and inconsistent calibration of spoken discourse features. To ensure that distractors were text-based and aligned with assessment criteria, item quality needed to be refined iteratively. These results imply that iterative human-AI interaction, rather than automated generation alone, determines the quality of AI-generated listening materials. The study emphasizes the ongoing importance of professional human oversight while highlighting the potential of generative AI as a resource-efficient support tool for the development of listening assessments. To investigate the efficacy of AI-assisted materials in operational assessment contexts, future research should focus on empirical validation with test takers.
Heutagogical Approach in Indonesian Islamic EFL Classrooms: Exploring Students’ Readiness and Attitudes
Heutagogy is a self-regulated learning process where students have a higher level of control and autonomy in their learning processes. Heutagogy is different from traditional learning approaches, which have been widely practised in Indonesian EFL settings. The study aims to explore students' readiness and attitude in applying heutagogy in EFL settings at an Indonesian Islamic university. The study uses a mixed-methods approach. The participants consisted of 201 English language learners, and both a survey and interviews were conducted. The results from the survey were analysed by employing descriptive statistics, and the results from the interviews were analysed to gain a deeper understanding of students' experiences and their perspectives on self-directed learning. The findings from the study show that, despite the students’ enthusiasm, creativity, and teamwork, they face challenges in the processes of self-assessment, self-directed learning, and time management. The applicability of heutagogy-based learning approaches in the real world is limited by the rigid structure of the curriculum and the typical relationships between the tutors and the students. The students’ need for flexibility and innovation in the learning environment is apparent, despite the challenges they face in the process of accepting self-directed learning. This paper concludes that the step-by-step process of applying heutagogical principles through scaffolding and blended learning approaches is necessary for the effective application process within the context of the English as a foreign language educational program. Organised intervention approaches, such as the development of self-assessment skills, may help the process towards increased learner autonomy for the students. The results have contributed to the ever-growing literature related to the application of heutagogy in English foreign language educational contexts.
Integrating Digital Literacy into English for Business Communication Materials for Economics Students
The rapid transformation of digital business environments has reshaped the communication competencies required of economics graduates. In this context, English for Business Communication (EBC) should be supported by digital literacy because professional communication increasingly occurs through digital platforms. However, many EBC materials used in Indonesian higher education remain text-based and provide limited exposure to authentic digital business communication. This study aimed to develop and evaluate digital literacy-integrated EBC instructional materials for economics students. Using a Research and Development design based on the ADDIE model, the study involved needs analysis, material design, expert validation, classroom implementation, and evaluation. Data were collected through questionnaires, expert appraisal forms, pre-test and post-test assessments, and student feedback. The findings showed an overall performance improvement of 17.9%, particularly in vocabulary accuracy, email coherence, business language use, and task appropriateness. Students also responded positively to the clarity, relevance, and interactivity of the developed materials. These findings indicate that integrating digital literacy into ESP-based EBC materials can strengthen students’ business communication competence and connect classroom learning with authentic digital workplace practices. Future material development should include richer multimodal resources, digital simulations, and context-based tasks to support more authentic and sustainable learning outcomes.