Journal of English Culture, Language, Literature and Education

Exploring English Reading Challenges in Southwest Papua EFL Classrooms: The Role of Virtual Learning

2024-08-12T01:05:00+00:00

This research explores the obstacles students encounter during English reading instruction through virtual learning in Southwest Papua's English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms. The study was conducted at UNIMUDA Sorong, utilizing both offline and online methods for data collection. The researcher recruited 20 participants through convenient sampling. Qualitative data was collected and analysed thematically, revealing that students perceive virtual learning as highly beneficial for improving their English reading skills. They find it user-friendly and hold a positive attitude towards its integration into learning. Consequently, it is asserted that students' favorable perceptions of virtual learning's value in enhancing EFL classrooms in Papua correspond to their adeptness in utilizing virtual learning for reading comprehension. The findings suggest that virtual learning can effectively support EFL instruction, highlighting its potential to overcome traditional learning barriers in this context. Additionally, the study emphasizes the need for adequate technological infrastructure and continuous training for both students and teachers to maximize the benefits of virtual learning.

The Interplay Among AI, Language Research, and Academic Publishing: A Systematic Review of Trends and Future Directions

2024-12-20T23:39:31+00:00

The transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in language research and academic publishing has garnered significant attention in recent years. This systematic review explores the interplay among AI, language research, and academic publishing, focusing on trends, challenges, opportunities, and future directions. A total of 30 peer-reviewed articles published between 2020 to 2024 were analyzed using PRISMA guidelines to ensure comprehensive coverage. Findings reveal that AI technologies such as Natural Language Processing (NLP), machine translation, and automated peer-review systems are revolutionizing methodologies in linguistic studies and scholarly dissemination. While the adoption of AI presents numerous opportunities such as enhanced accessibility, increased efficiency, and advanced linguistic analysis it also raises challenges. Key concerns include ethical issues, data privacy, biases in AI algorithms, and resistance to adoption due to fears of over-reliance on automation. Additionally, the future of AI in these domains points to exciting possibilities, including ethical AI development, generative AI’s role in redefining authorship, and the integration of AI literacy into academic training. This review contributes to the growing discourse by mapping current trends and identifying gaps in research, offering actionable recommendations for stakeholders. It underscores the need for responsible and inclusive AI practices to harness its potential fully, ensuring sustainable advancements in language research and academic publishing.

Integrating Digital Games-Based Language Learning for EFL Speaking Skills Development: A Case Study in an Indonesian University

2024-12-20T23:55:48+00:00

Digital learning has become a potential learning tool since the COVID pandemic which causes the use of new technologies including digital games-based language learning. However, the implementation still has challenges due to technical, instructional, and financial barriers. Previous studies suggest exploring more teaching experiences related to the use of digital games-based language learning for future contributions. This study aims to explore the implementation of digital games-based language learning in higher education. To achieve this goal, this study was conducted in an Indonesian higher education, the State University of Makassar by applying a qualitative case study to collect data. The researcher collected the data from 2 lecturers recruited using a convenient sampling technique. The thematic analysis was used to analyze the collected data. This study explores teacher experiences in using digital games-based language learning in a speaking classroom. This study found that the lecturers plan, implement, and evaluate digital games-based language learning in three categories namely well, moderate, and low implemented. From this result, it is claimed academically that digital games-based language learning (DGBLL) can be planned, implemented, and evaluated strategically in speaking classrooms based on learning objectives, learning outcomes, and students' learning needs. Combining technology with game-based learning, education can be more dynamic and relevant, accommodating a variety of learning styles and motivating students to be more actively involved in the learning process.

Does it Work?: Applying English Translation Shift to Achieve Students’ Ability

2024-12-28T03:22:57+00:00

This study investigates the translation abilities of English Education students, specifically the 2022 cohort at the English Education Department, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, University of Papua. Conducted in March 2024, this research adopts a quantitative method, utilizing a translation shift approach to analyze the collected data. The study's sample consisted of 20 purposively selected students from the 2022 batch (Arikunto, 1993). A translation test was employed as the primary data collection instrument, focusing on simple phrases and sentences. The collected quantitative data were analyzed to evaluate students' translation skills and determine the frequency of applied translation shifts. The findings reveal that students predominantly utilized translation shifts in their translations, with the most frequent being structure shifts and unit shifts. These shifts highlight the students' preference for adapting grammatical structures and linguistic units to achieve equivalence between the source and target languages. Moreover, out of six recognized types of translation shifts, the students successfully demonstrated competence in four, reflecting their ability to handle a range of translation challenges based on the provided test items.

The Effect of Edpuzzle as Learning Media for Junior High School Students’ Writing Skill

2024-12-18T06:13:15+00:00

These days, technology mostly contributes to education, particularly for students who wish to learn English writing. Edpuzzle is an innovative educational tool designed to teach English. This app is a video-content-based learning tool that may be developed for the benefit of the students. As thus, the key objective of the current research is to aid teachers in using Edpuzzle as a means of instruction for junior high school students with the objective to determine the effect it has on their abilities to write. The present research was conducted quantitatively and utilized a pre-experimental approach. According to the research's design, the researcher has given a writing assessment to 32 students as a sample over this research. Pretests and posttests, which are written assessments, were the research instruments utilized in this research. The research came across that Edpuzzle were having significant effects on the abilities to write of 8th junior high school students. The researcher admits as the current study may not have been finest; there were several barriers or weaknesses experienced throughout the procedure. As an outcome, it is uncertain that what was discovered of the present research can be generalized to wider populations or overseas.

Philosophy of Education in the Digital Age: A Systematic Review of ELT Approaches and Ethical Considerations

2025-01-06T09:49:04+00:00

The rapid integration of digital technologies into English Language Teaching (ELT) has significantly reshaped pedagogical practices, offering both opportunities and ethical challenges. This study reviews the philosophy of education in the digital age, with a focus on ELT approaches and the ethical concerns arising from their adoption. Three key issues are identified: accessibility and the digital divide, data privacy and security, and reduced human interaction. These challenges underscore the importance of a balanced approach to digital education that upholds equity, security, and social connection. The findings reveal that, while digital tools enhance access to educational resources, they risk excluding students from marginalized communities due to technological disparities. Similarly, the growing use of digital platforms raises concerns about the collection and misuse of sensitive student data, emphasizing the need for robust data protection measures. Additionally, the decline in human interaction within virtual learning environments may affect student motivation, engagement, and emotional well-being. Addressing these ethical challenges is crucial to ensuring that digital ELT adheres to the principles of inclusivity and fairness, fostering a more equitable and secure learning environment for all students. This review provides practical insights for educators, policymakers, and stakeholders in navigating the complexities of digital education.

Self-Sacrifice As Seen in Harry Potter and The Philosopher’s Stone Movie

2025-01-10T03:10:04+00:00

The purpose of this study is to reveal Self-Sacrifice as Seen in Kloves's Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. In conducting the study, the writer delimited this study only in revealing self-sacrifice using descriptive qualitative method. In analyzing the data the writer used psychological approach based on the theory of Carl Jung. Jung said that we must deal with three powerful archetypes that compose the self there are the Shadow, the Anima, and the Persona. The data taken from the Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone movie script by Steve Kloves based on the novel by J.K. Rowling. After analyze the movie script the writer may concluded that the characters in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone indeed their self-sacrifice through their Sincerity of Love which is anima; Willingness to make Commitment and Willingness to tell Lies which are shadow; and Willingness to take a Risk which is persona as the components of self-sacrifice. These four types of self-sacrifice clearly describe in the movie. Through these findings, how sincere and valuable are self-sacrifice that felt by the main character Harry Potter and experienced by his family and friends seen in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone Movie.

Students Intercultural Competence in Their Ability to Communicate from Diverse Cultural Backgrounds

2025-01-10T04:35:23+00:00

Intercultural competence is an essential skill for students in today’s globalized educational landscape, particularly in English language learning contexts. This study investigates students’ intercultural competence, focusing on their ability to adapt and communicate effectively across diverse cultural boundaries. Employing a quantitative survey approach, data were collected from 53 university students engaged in English language programs. Findings reveal varying levels of competence: while 35.8% of participants reported ease in adapting to cultural differences, nearly half (49.1%) expressed neutrality, indicating limited confidence or experience. Challenges such as language barriers (62.3%) and unfamiliarity with social customs (20.8%) were identified as significant obstacles. Despite these challenges, students participating in cultural exchange programs or engaging with diverse peers demonstrated enhanced competence, gaining enriched perspectives, improved communication skills, and stronger social bonds. Positive experiences included language acquisition, cultural understanding, and mutual respect. To address gaps, the study recommends integrating intercultural communication training, cultural awareness workshops, and experiential learning programs into curricula. Additionally, fostering supportive environments through mentorship and safe spaces for dialogue is essential. These interventions aim to empower students, equipping them for effective communication and collaboration in multicultural academic and professional settings.

The Use of STAD Cooperative Learning Model to Improve Reading Comprehension Skills of Junior High School Students

2025-01-15T06:48:59+00:00

This study investigates the importance of English language learning in Indonesia, particularly focusing on reading comprehension among students at Kakaskasen Christian Junior High School. As English has become a global lingua franca, mastering it is essential for students to enhance their communication skills and improve their employability in an increasingly interconnected world. However, many students struggle with reading comprehension, as evidenced by assessments showing that only 7 out of 25 students met the minimum required score. The challenges identified include limited vocabulary, lack of engagement with reading materials, and ineffective teaching methods. To address these issues, the research advocates for the implementation of cooperative learning strategies, specifically the Student Teams Achievement Divisions (STAD) model. This approach encourages collaboration among students and fosters an interactive learning environment that can enhance their reading skills. The findings suggest that employing cooperative learning techniques can significantly boost student motivation and performance in reading comprehension, ultimately preparing them for future academic and career opportunities while promoting a deeper understanding of cultural diversity through language learning.