Ugwuagbo, Walter Osondu, Ozoemena, Johnkenedy Azubuike, Ejike, Nwabueze Ekene
{"title":"Pragmatic Analysis of President Muhamadu Buhari’s Cumulative Lockdown Order of the Federal Captital Territory, Ogun and Lagos States on COVID 19 Pandemic at the State House Abuja on Monday, April 27, 2020","authors":"Ugwuagbo, Walter Osondu, Ozoemena, Johnkenedy Azubuike, Ejike, Nwabueze Ekene","doi":"10.5539/elt.v16n12p81","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v16n12p81","url":null,"abstract":"This paper investigates the pragmatic acts of locution, illocution, and perlocution in President Muhamadu Buhari’s cumulative Lockdown order of the Federal Capital Territory, (Abuja), Ogun, and Lagos States during the COVID 19 pandemic on Monday, April 27, 2020. We adopt J. L. Austin’s (1962) and Searle’s (1969) speech act theory, using the illocutionary acts of: expressive, declaratives, assertive, directives, and commissive. The data for this paper are drawn from President Muhammadu Buhari’s speech on COVID 19 on Monday, April 27, 2020. In this study, qualitative research method is adopted; and the descriptive survey method is used for the data analysis. The study reveals that the President used more of assertive speech acts which recorded an overall frequency of 15 and (42%) to affirm, announce, report and state the damaging effect of the pandemic on human lives and economies across the globe, and the measures to be taken in protecting the lives and livelihood of Nigerians. This is followed by expressive and commissive speech acts which recorded a frequency of, 8 and (22%) each and finally directive speech act which has a frequency of 5 and (14%). The perlocutionary effects of the lockdown order on Nigerians are: hope, optimism, compliance and awareness. The percentage and frequency of speech acts are arranged on a table and presented on a pie chart.","PeriodicalId":508940,"journal":{"name":"English Language Teaching","volume":"5 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-11-30","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139205124","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Utilizing Facebook Input to Enhance Vocabulary Knowledge in Young EFL Learners","authors":"Noppadon Ponsamak, Apisak Sukying","doi":"10.5539/elt.v16n12p68","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v16n12p68","url":null,"abstract":"This mixed-methods study investigated the role of Facebook in enhancing Thai EFL primary school learners’ vocabulary knowledge. The study's primary goal was to examine how using Facebook as an instructional platform improves the written form of English vocabulary knowledge. Twenty-four primary school students, aged 11-12, participated in this study. Two tests were designed and validated to measure students’ receptive and productive knowledge of word form. A focus group was also used to gain deeper insight into students’ perspectives on the impact of Facebook input on vocabulary learning. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed to analyze quantitative data, while content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. The results showed that students significantly improved their receptive and productive vocabulary knowledge, and the knowledge of word form (written) developed along the receptive-productive continuum. Additionally, the qualitative findings showed the usefulness of Facebook input. Indeed, the participants viewed the Facebook input as an inviting and stimulating atmosphere and a helpful platform to acquire vocabulary by engaging and sharing with their peers in the learning activity. Overall, the study indicates that Facebook input is an efficient alternative platform for vocabulary teaching. Implications for practitioners and suggestions for future studies are also provided.","PeriodicalId":508940,"journal":{"name":"English Language Teaching","volume":"13 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-11-28","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139218453","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Exploring the Relationships between EFL Learners’ Foreign Language Classroom Boredom, Foreign Language Classroom Learning Engagement and Learning Achievement","authors":"Kexin Xu, Jing Wang","doi":"10.5539/elt.v16n12p58","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v16n12p58","url":null,"abstract":"The impact of emotions on the learning process and learning achievements has gained increasing attention in recent years, with particular emphasis on the significance of boredom. Boredom detrimentally influences learners’ cognitive resources, hampers their level of engagement, and consequently restricts academic achievement. The current study explores the relationships between these factors using self-reported scales. The results indicate a significant negative correlation between boredom and engagement and a significant moderate negative correlation between boredom and English learning achievement. A significantly high positive correlation was found between engagement and English learning achievement. And these two factors were demonstrated to be significant predictors of English learning achievement. The findings broadened the nomological network of boredom, engagement, and learning achievement in the EFL context and provided insights to mitigate learners’ boredom and enhance their engagement and learning achievement.","PeriodicalId":508940,"journal":{"name":"English Language Teaching","volume":"176 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-11-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139234107","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Readability of Reading Texts for EFL Students at Al-Baha University","authors":"Abir Sabry Mohamed Selim","doi":"10.5539/elt.v16n12p1","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v16n12p1","url":null,"abstract":"Reading is an important skill for EFL university students, as it reinforces their critical and analytical thinking. EFL university students rely on reading texts to expand their knowledge of the outside world and enhance their memory functions, enabling them to use the target language more effectively. EFL instructors depend on the reading texts as the basis for curricular and extracurricular activities to enhance their learners' language skills, enabling them to use the language in everyday situations. Therefore, selecting suitable English textbooks with appropriate reading texts is crucial for students' achievement and progress. Research in the areas of readability of textbooks and reading texts is very important to assess the appropriateness of different texts for learners. Many readability studies have focused on examining the suitability of readability formulas for measuring the readability level of texts provided to learners. This study measured the readability level of the reading texts of Evolve 4 special edition (published by Cambridge University Press) offered to EFL university students using online digital software that utilizes a set of the most commonly used readability formulas, including the Flesch Reading Ease Formula, Gunning Fog index, and Coleman Liau index. This study also used a set of cloze tests administered to female EFL university students, designed by the researcher to measure the readability level of the reading texts and provide suggestions and recommendations for EFL instructors who teach the textbook at the university level. The findings of this study show that the readability level of the reading texts in the English book Evolve 4 special edition is fairly challenging for EFL university students, as measured by a set of readability instruments. Consequently, the study recommends that EFL instructors should utilize a diverse set of teaching strategies and cooperative work methods to help their students read and understand the reading texts in Evolve 4 special edition. Moreover, EFL instructors should take into account significant factors that can affect the readability of English reading texts, such as learners' interest, prior background, style of the text, and the content itself. These considerations should guide instructors in tailoring their approach to maximize student learning outcomes.","PeriodicalId":508940,"journal":{"name":"English Language Teaching","volume":"27 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-11-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139234783","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"The Use of Flipped Classroom Technology Approach with E-Writing Program to Develop Writing and Promote Active Learning Environment of Thai EFL Learners","authors":"Pongpatchara Kawinkoonlasate","doi":"10.5539/elt.v16n12p39","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v16n12p39","url":null,"abstract":"The utilization of technology and digitalization has ushered in substantial changes within the education system, exerting a profound influence on the processes of teaching and learning. This study introduces an innovative approach, the flipped classroom learning method, with the objective of enhancing the writing skills of learners. The research encompasses the following objectives: (1) To evaluate the impact of the flipped classroom learning approach, combined with the e-Writing instructional design program, on the writing skills of EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners. (2) To investigate the creation of an active learning environment for learners who have experienced the flipped classroom learning approach with the e-Writing instructional design program. (3) To explore the attitudes of EFL learners regarding the implementation of the flipped learning approach with the e-Writing instructional design program within a writing classroom. This study involved 30 participants enrolled in an Essay Writing course, selected through a purposive sampling method. Six research instruments were employed: (1) Flipped classroom lesson plans (2) Achievement tests (3) Questionnaires (4) Flipped classroom learning technology with a model for an e-Writing instructional design program (5) Interview questions (6) Focus group discussions Data collection took place during the second semester of the Academic Year 2022, with data analysis conducted using SPSS for quantitative data and coding and content analysis for qualitative data. The primary findings demonstrated that the flipped classroom learning approach effectively enhanced learners' writing tasks, bolstering motivation and cultivating a more favorable learning environment that positively impacted the quality of writing. Learners responded positively to the flipped classroom approach, reporting increased engagement in active learning. Consequently, it is recommended that the flipped classroom learning approach be considered as a viable instructional alternative to cultivate a more meaningful learning environment and elevate learners' academic performance.","PeriodicalId":508940,"journal":{"name":"English Language Teaching","volume":"25 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-11-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139230640","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Hinderance or Assistance: A Case Study on the Application of First Language (L1) in an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Classroom at an English Language Institution","authors":"Jie Li","doi":"10.5539/elt.v16n12p15","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v16n12p15","url":null,"abstract":"L1 use inside EFL classrooms has been a topic of continuous discussion for a considerable period of time, with no prevailing opinion about its impact and extent within L2 (second language) learning environments, particularly within Chinese language institutions. The primary objective is to address the current gap in research and acquire a thorough comprehension of the true effects of L1 use in an EFL classroom. This was achieved through the observation of a specific teaching scenario and conducting an interview with the instructor. Data were classified using Tasçi and Aksu’s nine functions of L1 use. The results suggest that the most often observed functions of L1 in the context of education include imparting instruction, translating new terms, and attracting attention. Additionally, it was found that L1 is most frequently used during the vocabulary section and in the middle of each instructional session. Furthermore, the interviewed teacher expressed the belief that L1 usage in the classroom has positive effects, since it serves many functions and should be tailored differently depending on the students' levels of skill. This study implies that the inclusion and promotion of L2 in the EFL setting is advantageous, as learners can considerably benefit from a language immersion environment. However, L1 can still be used when deemed essential. Furthermore, during instructional sessions, educators have the opportunity to engage in reflective practices to assess the alignment between their pedagogical strategies and their intended instructional objectives.","PeriodicalId":508940,"journal":{"name":"English Language Teaching","volume":"14 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-11-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139235081","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Did they really Work? English Teachers’ Attitude towards the Effectiveness of Remote Online Exams in Times of Emergencies","authors":"Salim Al-Hashmi","doi":"10.5539/elt.v16n12p27","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v16n12p27","url":null,"abstract":"This paper explores English teachers’ perception of the effectiveness of employing remote online exams during the COVID-19 pandemic after many universities and colleges worldwide moved most of their activities online. The transition to online learning has enabled numerous higher education institutions (HEIs) to utilise options they were previously hesitant to employ due to concerns regarding how they would affect academic integrity. Eight English teachers from a university in Oman were interviewed by email to share their experiences and thoughts on the effectiveness of remote online exams (ROEs). In addition, pre-COVID-19 students' scoresheets were analysed to determine whether students' performance was consistent across face-to-face and remote online exams. The results indicate significant differences in students' scores between the two types of exams, which is attributable to factors such as invigilation issues, students' academic misconduct, and exam security. Finally, the eight interviewed teachers recommended making improvements to online exams as they believe ROEs will continue to be used in the future.","PeriodicalId":508940,"journal":{"name":"English Language Teaching","volume":"37 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2023-11-27","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139234392","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"A Study on Reticence in College EFL Classrooms: The Role of Diffusion of Responsibility","authors":"Yun Zhou, Yijin Chen","doi":"10.5539/elt.v13n6p133","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.5539/elt.v13n6p133","url":null,"abstract":"The absence of students’ willingness for classroom participation is known to lead to a lose-lose situation where teaching schedules are disrupted, teachers lose enthusiasm, and students hardly learn anything. The problem is plaguing Chinese college EFL teachers as much as it did decades ago. Large quantities of studies have tackled the problem; however, little research has considered how students’ psychology might link to classroom reticence. One psychological factor accountable for inaction when in the presence of a group of people is diffusion of responsibility. Thus, this study explores whether diffusion of responsibility plays a part in college EFL classroom reticence and whether there are any associations between diffusion of responsibility and gender, or English proficiency, or question type, or class size. Data from a questionnaire, interviews, and classroom observations showed that diffusion of responsibility was indeed a cause for class reticence. Further, Spearman correlation analyses found that no correlation existed between diffusion of responsibility and gender, or English proficiency. Paired-samples t-tests showed class size did have an impact on diffusion of responsibility while question type did not make a difference. Several suggestions on containing diffusion of responsibility and building rapport were put forward. The results should assist EFL teachers to work out possible solutions to the problem of class reticence.","PeriodicalId":508940,"journal":{"name":"English Language Teaching","volume":"10 16","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2020-05-29","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141202377","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}