The User-Friendliness and Effectiveness of the Interactive E-Book "Learn Malay With Rene" for Adult Foreign Speakers

Abstract

The rise of e-books has been adopted in the education system around the world due to its positive impact on the learning environment, including language learning. However, previous research has shown that the use of interactive e-books in learning Malay in Malaysia is still not encouraging. The purpose of this study is to investigate the user-friendliness and effectiveness of self-learning Malay among adult foreign speakers. This study used mixed mode research and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as a quantitative framework. The research material chosen is an interactive e-book titled "Learn Malay With Rene," which was written and developed by the researcher with the participation of 18 adult foreign speakers and expatriates from Iskandar Puteri, Johor Bahru. The study's findings show that adult foreign speakers positively perceived e-book designs with interactive elements and multimedia features that are user-friendly and simple to use. Meanwhile, respondents were optimistic about interactive e-books as a self-learning Malay language tool. The study can be used as a reference for designers when creating materials for interactive e-books for learning Malay. Adult foreign speakers clearly enjoyed the audio-visual learning material and appreciated the interactive links in the e-book that included graphics, music, videos, games, and quizzes. As a result, it is possible to conclude that interactive e-books should be expanded in all fields, particularly in teaching and learning Malay.