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Technology-Based Language Learning: Investigation of Digital Technology and Digital Literacy

Author

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  • Hussien Mohamad Alakrash

    (Center for Research in Language and Linguistics, Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia)

  • Norizan Abdul Razak

    (Center for Research in Language and Linguistics, Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi 43600, Malaysia)

Abstract

The use of digital technologies in developing the four language skills in English classrooms has not been sufficiently researched. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of digital technology and digital literacy in teaching and learning English. This study aims to firstly investigate the applications of digital technology and the level of digital literacy in learning and teaching English. Secondly, to measure the significant differences between EFL teachers and students in their usage of technology and digital literacies in English classrooms. Two questionnaires were distributed to 150 students and 40 teachers. The data were analyzed descriptively using SPSS 23.0. The findings show that students’ use of digital technology was the highest in learning vocabularies and lowest in reading skills, while teachers’ highest use was for general teaching practices and lowest for reading skills. Participants have high digital literacies. The findings supported the null hypotheses related to the significant difference between usage of digital technology for language pedagogy. These findings offer implications for policymakers towards designing plans to integrate digital technologies in the language classrooms of marginalized societies such as B40 in Malaysia.

Suggested Citation

  • Hussien Mohamad Alakrash & Norizan Abdul Razak, 2021. "Technology-Based Language Learning: Investigation of Digital Technology and Digital Literacy," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(21), pages 1-17, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:13:y:2021:i:21:p:12304-:d:674225
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    6. Vaishnavi S & Ajit I, 2023. "Exploring the Efficacy of Social Media Narrative-Based Activities in Improving Digital Communication Skills and Digital Literacy Among Tertiary-Level ESL Learners," World Journal of English Language, Sciedu Press, vol. 13(7), pages 222-222, September.
    7. Desheng Yan & Guangming Li, 2023. "A Heterogeneity Study on the Effect of Digital Education Technology on the Sustainability of Cognitive Ability for Middle School Students," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(3), pages 1-20, February.
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