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Perceptions and Challenges of ESL Teaching in Malaysian Primary Schools During COVID-19: A Qualitative Exploration

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  • Peljeet Kaur Dhaliwal Abtar Singh

    (Faculty of Education, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia)

  • Harwati Hashim

    (Faculty of Education, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Malaysia)

Abstract

This study investigates the perceptions, experiences, and challenges faced by ESL teachers in Malaysian primary schools during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period marked by the global transition from physical to virtual classrooms. Employing qualitative methods, interviews were conducted with six ESL teachers from primary schools in Johor Bahru. The findings highlight significant obstacles, including technical barriers, limited student engagement, and teachers’ inadequate training for online teaching. Nevertheless, the shift to online education also presented opportunities for flexibility in teaching and learning processes. This research underscores the necessity for targeted professional development, enhanced technological support, and effective strategies to optimize online ESL instruction. The insights derived contribute to future educational practices and policies, advocating a more effective and inclusive approach to online teaching and learning.

Suggested Citation

  • Peljeet Kaur Dhaliwal Abtar Singh & Harwati Hashim, 2025. "Perceptions and Challenges of ESL Teaching in Malaysian Primary Schools During COVID-19: A Qualitative Exploration," International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS), vol. 9(3s), pages 689-705, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:bcp:journl:v:9:y:2025:i:3s:p:689-705
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. repec:aoj:jeelre:v:7:y:2020:i:4:p:387-394:id:2294 is not listed on IDEAS
    2. Andrew Atkeson, 2020. "What Will be the Economic Impact of COVID-19 in the US? Rough Estimates of Disease Scenarios," Staff Report 595, Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis.
    3. Kelvin Yew Kai Wen & Kim Hua, Tan, 2020. "ESL Teachers’ Intention in Adopting Online Educational Technologies during COVID-19 Pandemic," Journal of Education and e-Learning Research, Asian Online Journal Publishing Group, vol. 7(4), pages 387-394.
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