slot online ETERNAL (English Teaching Journal) Journal title ETERNAL: English Teaching Journal Initials ETERNAL Abbreviation ETERNAL Frequency 2 issues per year (February & August) DOI Prefix 10.26877 by ISSN 2614-1639 (online) Editor-in-chief Th. Cicik Sophia Budiman, S.S., M.Pd. Publisher UPGRIS Press Citation Sinta | Google Scholar | Garuda | Dimensions ETERNAL (English Teaching Journal) has been accredited as a scientific journal by the Ministry of Research and Technology/National Research and Innovation Agency of Republic Indonesia (Sinta 5): 200/M/KPT/2020 PERIOD: 2018-2022. ETERNAL (English Teaching Journal) is published twice a year in the month of February and August ISSN 2086-5473 (Print) and ISSN 2614-1639(Online). It presents articles on English language teaching and learnings, literature and research. The contents include analysis studies, application of theories, research reports, material developments and reviews.
Prodi Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris, FPBS, Universitas PGRI Semarang
Bridging the Gap: Pre-Service Teachers’ Realities of Technology Integration in the Digital Classroom
In the digital era, integrating technology into education is essential for preparing future-ready educators. This qualitative case study explores how pre-service teachers experience and implement digital tools in instructional settings. It focuses on their successes, challenges, and the pedagogical strategies they employ. Drawing on the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework and experiential learning theory, the study involved 15 pre-service teachers from a university in Semarang. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and classroom observations, and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings reveal that pre-service teachers primarily used technology to manage classrooms and engage students—for example, using interactive platforms like Kahoot! to maintain attention and assess understanding in real time. These tools influenced student reactions and led teachers to adapt their instructional strategies dynamically. While digital tools were seen as effective for promoting engagement and understanding, participants faced challenges related to digital literacy, infrastructure limitations, and a lack of mentorship. Technology-based assessment and proactive engagement strategies were less frequently applied, highlighting a gap between theoretical training and classroom practice. The results suggest that teacher education programs should provide more hands-on, guided experiences, reflective practices, and institutional support to develop digital teaching competence. This study contributes to ongoing efforts to align teacher training with the realities of technology-enhanced learning environments
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Reading Comprehension through Multimodal Literacy Approach for English Education
In the digital era, reading comprehension of multimodal texts that integrate written language with images, videos, and interactive elements has become crucial yet challenging for many students. This mixed-methods study investigated the effectiveness of a multimodal instructional approach in enhancing reading comprehension among 120 Indonesian high school students. The quantitative component employed a quasi-experimental design with pre/post reading comprehension tests, while the qualitative component utilized observations and interviews. The results revealed that the experimental group receiving multimodal instruction achieved significantly higher reading comprehension scores compared to the control group receiving traditional text-based instruction (F(1, 117) = 12.68, p < .001, ηp2 = .098). The multimodal approach was particularly beneficial for students with lower initial reading proficiency levels. Qualitative data indicated increased engagement, motivation, comprehension facilitation, accommodation of diverse learning styles, and the need for technology integration support and instructional scaffolding. The findings align with multimedia learning theory and differentiated instruction principles, providing empirical evidence supporting the integration of multimodal elements to create engaging, accessible, and effective reading experiences. Implications for teacher professional development, curriculum design, and future research directions are discussed. Overall, this study contributes to the growing literature on multimodal literacy pedagogy and offers practical insights for enhancing reading instruction in the 21st century multimedia landscape.
EFL Students’ Perception towards the Use of Debate Video Session for Vocabulary Acquisition and Retention
Discovering captioned debate videos for vocabulary acquisition is an essential learning strategy for EFL learners. Vocabulary is a crucial element in the acquisition of a foreign language. However, many students experience challenges in mastering English vocabulary. Various vocabulary learning strategies were established, with some students utilizing personalized techniques to learn new words. Learners' motivation and obsession with vocabulary acquisition are enhanced by audiovisual stimuli, such as animated films, videos, and music, which captivate their attention. This study aims to explore students' perceptions of using captioned debate video sessions in English for vocabulary acquisition and retention. In this study, the researcher utilized a mixed method. The research was conducted in the English Department of Universitas Negeri Malang, East Java. It involved 40 participants: 30 undergraduate students in their third and fifth semesters and 10 postgraduate students in their first semester of master's studies. The findings revealed that debate videos improved EFL learners' English vocabulary mastery and pronunciation and helped with word retention. Captioned debate videos should be employed in the EFL teaching classroom to enhance learners' English proficiency, particularly for vocabulary acquisition and retention, as well as to foster pronunciation. In addition, captioned debate videos can improve active vocabulary mastery and listening comprehension.
Figurative Languages Found in Paint My Love Greatest Hits Lyrics
Language is a fundamental tool in communication and expression, including in the realm of music. Songs, as a form of art, often use figurative language to convey messages more emotionally and aesthetically. However, not all listeners are able to understand the hidden meaning behind the lyrics, especially when figurative language is used. This study aims to examine the use of figurative language in the album Paint My Love Greatest Hits by referring to Frederik's theory. This study uses a qualitative approach to analyze the types and meanings of figurative language found in song lyrics. Data were obtained from all songs in the album. The results of the analysis show that the most frequent type of figurative language is symbols (42.86%), while the least frequent are hyperbole, litotes, metonymy, and paradox. These findings reveal that figurative language plays an important role in enriching the meaning and emotional depth of song lyrics.
The Effect Of Using Question-Answer Relationship (QAR) On Students’ Reading Comprehension Abilities In Procedure Text
This research aims to discover how well the students' reading comprehension abilities are enhanced by QAR strategy and to discover how the students’ responses to the use of QAR strategy. The population in this research were students of 10th grade SMK Ma’arif 9 Kebumen which consisted of 507 students and the sample consisted of 60 students. This research used a quantitative and data was gathered from the test result as well as a questionnaire containing 16 questions with an item scale. The test result in experimental class showed that the pre-test average was 55.6 while the post-test was 82.2. The average score of both is quite different. After hypothesis testing was carried out, the results obtained were T Score < T Table (0,000<0,05), Therefore, it can be said that using QAR has an impact on students' reading comprehension abilities of 10th grade students in SMK Ma’arif 9 Kebumen. In addition, the students also showed positive responses to the use of QAR strategy such as the students were able to mark keywords from the text to find the correct answer, the students were able to explain the information contained in the reading text, and the students said that the QAR strategy facilitated them to understand the reading text and to answer the questions. It was evident from the results of the questionnaires. Most of students stated that the QAR technique was highly beneficial and helped them enhance their reading comprehension skills.
Question-Answer Relationship (QAR) Strategy
Beyond the ‘Uh-Oh’ Moment: Refusal Strategies in a Young EFL Learner’s Extensive Reading Responses
Understanding refusal strategies utilized by young learners in learning English as a foreign language (EFL) is essential for teachers to foster more effective interaction in the classroom. The present study explores how a young EFL learner applies refusal strategies when interacting during extensive reading (ER) activities. Data were collected through real-time observations, the learner’s diaries, and a parent interview, and further analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed how the young EFL learner applied more direct refusals, influenced by the learner’s developmental traits. Indirect refusals, which appeared mostly as avoidance, emerged frequently only during the initial ER sessions. Refusals, regardless, did not appear as frequent towards the end of ER sessions as the learner became comfortable and confident with the teacher’s scaffolding. Considering the findings, the current study suggests future studies to investigate how refusal strategies are applied by young EFL learners in a larger group, which may be influenced by different developmental traits, learning situations, and language proficiencies, to further generalize the findings.
Exploring Body Positivity Through Instagram Discourse: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Clara Dao and Her Audience
This study focuses on the feminist stylistic features of Clara Dao's Instagram discourse. A qualitative research design is employed, using Sara Mills’s feminist stylistics within the framework of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA), which focuses on the word, sentence, and discourse levels. Data were collected through purposive sampling and documentation techniques. The subject of the study is the commentary associated with Clara Dao’s Instagram content, explicitly discussing body image issues. The data include 18 comments categorized as positive, negative, and neutral, selected based on the relevance issue of body positivity. The findings reveal that societal expectations impose certain norms and standards on women’s physical appearances. These expectations influence how women are judged and often criticized when they do not conform to dominant beauty ideals. Additionally, the construction of female identity is shown to be shaped by social norms that dictate how women should behave and present themselves in public discourse.
Rhetorical Moves of Research Article Abstracts in Linguistics and Language Education with Different Quartile Level
Writing an abstract in a research article is very important. The existence of abstract is compulsory in a research article. It is a research summary that must be attached and presented with the article. This study aims to identify moves and the most common pattern in RA abstracts in linguistic and language journals with different quartiles level. By using descriptive qualitative method, eighty RA abstracts of linguistic and language education journals with different quartile level were extracted from eight journals. The result finding; 1) Move 2 (Aim/Purpose) exists in seventy RA abstracts, Move 3 (Method) is present in sixty two RA abstracts, and Move 4 (Finding/Result) appears in Seventy Eight RA abstracts. In contrast, Move 1 (Introduction) is found in only 50 RA abstracts, and Move 5 (Conclusion) appears in 31 RA abstracts. 2) Q1 journal have the most frequent move, indicating a more comprehensive and detailed structure in their abstracts. In contrast, journals in lower quartiles, such as Q3 and Q4, often feature abstracts with fewer moves. As this study focuses only on the rhetorical move and pattern of RA abstract in field of linguistic and language journal with different quartile level, future research should conduct a comparative study and language features of the RA abstract in the field of across discipline with different quartile level.
Inclusion and Exclusion of Social Actors in Judi Online ‘Online Gambling’ News:A Corpus-Assisted Critical Discourse Analysis Approach on Kompas.com
Abstract. This study aims to describe the inclusion and exclusion of social actors in online gambling news coverage on Kompas.com using a critical discourse analysis approach assisted by corpora. By utilizing this approach, the language patterns used in the coverage are systematically analyzed to explore how the issue of online gambling is framed by the media. The findings reveal that the coverage predominantly features the government, such as "Budi Arie", in a positive role as an active actor in the fight against online gambling (inclusion). The government is portrayed as the key and dominant force in addressing this issue. In contrast, the online gambling perpetrators and victims are more frequently ignored or concealed (exclusion). The perpetrators are depicted as destructive agents responsible for the issue, while victims are often portrayed as suffering individuals who require external intervention. The language use that emphasizes the government's role highlights efforts to reinforce their legitimacy in addressing this social problem. Thus, the analysis shows that Kompas.com's news coverage tends to present a discourse that supports the government's role in tackling online gambling, while minimizing the representation of perpetrators and victims.
The Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) In English Language Teaching Practices: A Meta-Synthesis Study
A great number of studies researching the incorporation of AI into English language teaching have grown significantly within the last five years. Nevertheless, to date, limited studies have been found to specifically review studies regarding AI integration in English language teaching. To fill the gap, this meta-synthesis study aims at presenting a summary of qualitative literature exploring how AI is integrated in English language teaching. Sixteen out of forty-seven articles were selected from various reputable databases as well as peer-reviewed journals (i.e., Scopus indexed) including Taylor & Francis, Science Direct, Wiley, Emerald, and ProQuest. Only qualitative data were processed and analysed thematically. Findings revealed some emerging themes: 1) student and teacher’s views towards AI integration in ELT, 2) benefits and drawbacks of AI integration in ELT, and 3) the role of AI for language skill improvement. In addition, the study shed light on several research topics recommended for further research.
Unveiling Halliday’s Textual Metafunction in Indonesian and Samoan EFL Textbooks for Year 10
Abstract. Textual metafunction helps the authors develop text coherently and cohesively and significantly aids readers in understanding the idea, especially in EFL textbooks. EFL textbook has become the essential learning material in EFL classrooms which it should be delivered with clarity to fostered students to grasp the material. Due to the crucial role of EFL textbooks in EFL classrooms, this study aims to unveil how theme-rheme and thematic progression occurred in reading passages of Indonesian and Samoan EFL textbooks. To attain the aims of the study, twelve reading passages from the Indonesian EFL textbook and eight reading passages from the Samoan EFL textbook for year ten were examined. Data that has been examined by theme-rheme proposed by Halliday and Matthiessen (2014) revealed that topical theme is a common type of theme found in Indonesian and Samoan EFL textbooks. Concurrently, these textbooks have the same type order in the occurrence of theme-rheme’s type, from the most common to the least type of theme that appeared. However, the Samoan EFL textbook contains a smaller variety of components in theme types due to the limited text genres in it. After examined thematic progression of these textbooks, and it revealed that the zigzag theme pattern was the majority theme pattern. Alongside the zigzag theme pattern becoming the majority pattern, these textbooks had different order for the second and third place of theme pattern due to the various contents of these EFL textbooks. This study provides textual metafunction, especially theme-rheme and thematic progression, which could be analyzed in EFL textbooks and, eventually, in literary texts.
Principles of Developing “V-I-S-U-A-L-S” Media in Teaching English to Young Learners at SD GMIT Oepura
Abstract. This research aims to help EYL teachers utilize the media to achieve learning goals. The learning process becomes fun, students are pro-active in learning, the material is easy to understand and there is interaction between teachers and students. The research was conducted in the SD GMIT Oepura, where the researcher taught the elementary students using EYL media which EYL students have made. This focuses on how the elementary students respond to the media itself whether the media interacted with them or not. The research data was collected through observation. Analysis was carried out through analytical descriptive methods and qualitative content analysis. Research on this topic is about V-I-S-U-A-L-S which stands for visible, interesting, simple, useful, accurate, legitimate, and structured, was obtained from (1.) Media create a memorable learning experience, understand complex and abstract concepts through colorful images, grab attention, and encourage active participation. (2.) Psychologically, the v-i-s-u-a-l-s media development provides meaningful experiences, and builds the young learners’ creativity by overcoming limitations of time, space, and energy that make the learning more interactive, improving the quality of their learning outcomes. (3.) V-i-s-u-a-l-s media helps students understand difficult material, making the learning process more interesting and varied, and making students more active in class. (4.) V-i-s-u-a-l-s media builds students’ creativity to develop their interaction easily between teachers and students so that learning activities are more effective and efficient. (5.) V-i-s-u-a-l-s media stimulated young learners to learn more actively. (6.) V-i-s-u-a-l-s media helps the teaching and learning process with various benefits, such as reducing obstacles in the learning process, assisting teachers in providing explanations of learning material, helping students absorb lesson material more deeply, helping students think concretely, and helping students build creativity.
Principles of developing V-I-S-U-A-L-S media
Exploring EFL Teachers’ Knowledge on the Utilization of Platform Merdeka Mengajar (PMM): Challenges, Possibilities and Practices
In supporting the implementation of The Emancipated Curriculum, Merdeka Mengajar is the main tool that the government use to spread information and help the implementation of The Emancipated Curriculum. In The Pangandaran district, the Emancipated Curriculum has been 100% implemented in formal education. In implementing The Emancipated Curriculum, there are many challenges that teachers face; they need a comprehensive understanding of the Emancipated Curriculum to implement the curriculum. This study aims to give an overview of how the utilization of PMM to support Pangandaran EFL teachers’ knowledge in implementing Emancipated Curriculum and the challenges, possibilities, and Practices in the utilization of PMM are based on EFL Pangandaran Teachers’ perspective. This study used qualitative methods with using documentation, questionnaires, and interviews to collect the data. Documentations were made by extracting data from the West Java Province BBMP website. The questionnaire involved 50 EFL teachers in The Pangandaran district. Interviews were conducted with two EFL teachers in The Pangandaran district. The result shows that the use of Platform Merdeka Mengajar (PMM) in The Pangandaran district has a score of 41.1% good, 50% quite good, and 8.9% need to be improved. 100% of the samples have installed the PMM application on their devices and have started studying the material and features of the application. Most EFL Teachers still face challenges in the utilization of PMM and the implementation of The Emancipated Curriculum itself.
Beyond the Score: A Personal Journey of Language Learning and Identity in IELTS Preparation
This autoethnography study examines the author's experiences in language learning and identity formation as related to IELTS preparation. As an English teacher, the author faces the unexpected distance between teaching skill and ability in the usage of language and emphasizes the layered nature of linguistic proficiency. Through a critical examination of her own IELTS learning experience, the author reveals the emotional and psychological struggles of navigating standardized testing, including feelings of overwhelm and inadequacy. Through familiarity with IELTS materials and with taking the IELTS test, the author undertakes a self-revelatory adventure, in which a discourse between language learning, identity, and academic expectation emerges. This reflective narrative presents a complex explanation of the personal psycho-social process behind language acquisition and therefore, the reader is led beyond the score to a set of complex interactions of personal development, self-perception, and identity an academic sense. The findings emphasize the importance of self-regulated learning, social engagement, and cognitive strategies in shaping one's academic and linguistic identity.
Exploring the Use of Google Docs for Collaborative Narrative Writing: A Sequential Exploratory Study in EFL Classroom
Abstract. Among the recent technological tools often used in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL), Google Docs is mostly used. This online media facilitates students' collaborative writing activities, making Google Docs frequently applied in writing classes to construct narrative text. Therefore, this study explores the influence of Google Docs as a medium for collaborative writing among EFL students in higher education, specifically on how it fosters sstudents' collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity as part of 21st-century skills. Through a mixed-method study, the research examines how students perceive Google Docs as it is employed to support collaborative writing. Data were collected from 50 English literature students from a private university in Indonesia. They were asked to describe their experiences in learning diaries throughout the teaching-learning session before being interviewed and asked to answer a questionnaire at the end of the course. The findings indicated that Google Docs provided students with meaningful learning experiences. It facilitates real-time collaboration and enhances peer feedback, which makes the activities beneficial in developing students' collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity as part of 21st-century skills. Therefore, the study emphasizes the need for structured guidance to maximize ICT tools' usefulness for education.
Exploring Paz Marquez-Benitez’ Dead Stars: A Linguistic Journey Through Transitivity Analysis
This study analyzed the first modern short story written in English in the Philippines, Dead Stars by Paz Marquez-Benitez through Systemic Functional Linguistics using Transitivity analysis. This study aims to understand how language is used to represent actions, participants, and their contexts, serving as a powerful tool for uncovering meaning and patterns of communication. The study made use of the qualitative research design integrating a detailed and comprehensive knowledge of the short story. From the analysis, material processes appear to be the most dominant processes; actor emerges as the most dominant type of participant; and manner appears frequently in circumstantial elements. Further, the study uncovers deeper meanings and ideological stances shedding light on how language is used to establish the to convey the story's themes, character relationships, and personal dilemmas—ultimately enhancing our appreciation of both language and literature.
AI and Decision Assistance for Enhancing Self-Directed Learning
Abstract. Self-directed learning (SDL) is critical in modern education, empowering learners to independently manage their learning processes and fostering lifelong learning. Despite its advantages, SDL presents significant challenges, including cognitive overload, motivational barriers, and ineffective decision-making. This study explores the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance SDL by providing personalized decision assistance. Using a qualitative approach—through case studies, expert interviews, and literature reviews—the study examines the use of AI-driven tools such as adaptive learning platforms, personalized recommendation systems, and intelligent tutoring systems. Findings reveal that these technologies improve resource selection, learning efficiency, and engagement by offering real-time, adaptive feedback and personalized learning paths. Participants reported increased autonomy, reduced cognitive load, and increased learners’ motivation, leading to measurable improvements in learning outcomes. However, limitations such as over-reliance on AI and the lack of emotional and contextual understanding underscore the need for a hybrid approach that combines AI with human oversight. This study highlights the potential of AI to significantly reshape and enhance self-directed learning (SDL) by making it more personalized, efficient, and accessible. It also offers recommendations for integrating AI into educational practices in ways that balance technological innovation with essential human-centred guidance
Exploring Bilingual Education Program at Private Islamic Boarding School
This case study aims to explore the process of curriculum design and development in bilingual program at private Islamic boarding school in Brebes The data were collected from stakeholders, English teachers, the members, and Self-Development Club, through direct observation, site visits, interviews, and document analysis. The data were analyzed qualitatively. There are three modifications of the curriculum supporting bilingual students' English improvements. They are implementing four years of study that the students will have a matriculation grade in the first year; adding English school hours in each grade, and providing English supporting programs named School Outing Program, Teaching Program, and Malhikdua Explore. Then, the existence of students' bilingual organization called Self-Development Club significantly contributes by taking over students' language improvement activities besides school hours. After being facilitated with the programs mentioned, the student's English proficiency was assessed through TOEFL by a certified state university language center and LPKS by the Brebes Department of Employment, with average scores of 510 (TOEFL) and 83% Grade A (LPKS). As a result, bilingual program of MA Al Hikmah 2 has successfully designed a proper curriculum to enhance students’ English proficiency.
An Analysis of Politeness Strategies in English Textbook Dialogues on Faith and Morality
Faith and morality have been parts of Indonesian society. The values of Pancasila as the national ideology are sufficient to proof that this nation’s relationship with faith and morality has been inseparable. This study aims to analyze one of the dimensions of the Pancasila Student Profile, “faith, devotion to God Almighty, and noble character,” through the application of politeness strategies in textbook dialogues. The method of this study is qualitative content analysis. The data collection technique of this study is documentation. The data are in the form of dialogue texts from two textbooks from the series of “Buku PR Interaktif Bahasa Inggris.” This study implements the politeness strategy by Brown and Levinson (1987) and the Pancasila Student Profile as part of Indonesia’s character education as the frameworks of this study. After collecting and categorizing the data using those two frameworks, the results of this study show two elements of “faith, devotion to God Almighty, and noble character” to be represented through politeness strategies in the dialogue texts in both of the textbooks. These elements are “moral towards humans” and “moral towards nature.” The results suggest textbook authors to include more balanced representation of all elements within “faith, devotion to God Almighty, and noble character” in order to develop students’ character to be well-rounded individuals. These results also suggest teachers to utilize the textbook dialogues through various activities such as roleplay, group reading, and group discussion to help students learn various types of morality in interactive ways.
Investigating Live Worksheets as Assessment Tool for Senior High School Students
Live Worksheets, a technology-based tool that helps educators in assessing student performance, is one of the tools that facilitate teachers in designing electronic worksheets or known as E-LKPD. Live Worksheets allows teachers to easily create and manage electronic worksheets (E-LKPD) that are more interactive and dynamic compared to conventional E-LKPD which are usually printed and less flexible in terms of interactivity and content updates. In addition, the objectives of this study are to discover (1) the implementation of using Live Worksheets, (2) the perceptions of the teacher and students of Live Worksheets as assessment tool, and (3) the difficulties experienced by teacher when using Live Worksheets as an assessment tool. The method used is descriptive quantitative method by conducting observations, distributing questionnaires, and conducting semi-structured interviews. The participants in this study were one teacher and class XI IPS III which totaled 34 students. The results of this study showed that the implementation of Live Worksheets by teacher is done by distributing the available worksheets to students. The teacher's perspective on Live Worksheets is very positive because this tool is considered easy to use, effective, has good question quality, offers flexibility, facilitates grade management, is efficient, and provides good feedback. The majority of students also had a positive view of the tool. The perceptions are divided into three categories, familiarity and ease of use, learning experience and motivation, also effectiveness and skill improvement. The challenges are academic dishonesty, managing the behavior of very active students, and also designing her own worksheets. It is suggested that teachers utilize Live Worksheets’ features to create tailored materials, and students engage with integrity to optimize learning.
Bridging The Gap: Tackling Students Challenges in Applying Politeness Strategy in English Daily Conversation
The study examines the difficulties BBC Tlogosari English Course students face when using politeness strategies in daily conversation. Communication is crucial in today's interconnected world, especially for EFL students. The qualitative research study used document analysis and questionnaires to gather information and questions from other students to analyze their experiences. According to the data, students have many challenges that make it hard for them to be polite. Language barriers, especially English, and emotional and cultural issues are among these challenges. The study showed that students used negative politeness strategies to avoid overgeneralization and cultural misunderstandings. These studies emphasize the need for differentiated instructional approaches that address these concerns, adding to current knowledge. This study shows that English politeness education can improve esteem escalation communication and culture. In the long term, this will improve student communication and cultural awareness. This research emphasizes the importance of politeness strategies and EFL contexts and representatives for more research into effective teaching practices that can improve learners. Communicating in English. Thus, by addressing these issues, teachers improve communication skills to the extent that they have cultural competence.
Assessment on Qualitative Research in Language Education: Perspectives from Thesis Supervisors
This study aims to examine assessment strategies employed by thesis supervisors in assessing their students qualitative research, and to explore the thesis supervisors’ perceptions of their assessment strategies. Conducted in an Indonesian university, this study adopted an explanatory sequential design of mixed-research by using a purposive sampling technique to recruit ten thesis supervisors as the research participants. The findings showed that the supervisors made a total of 1,002 feedback comments on the 20 thesis drafts. The feedback comments focused on five different aspects of students’ theses including research components (58.98%), coherent and cohesion (22.32%), grammatical accuracy (10.27%), vocabulary used (4.49%), and reference and citations (3.89%). Meanwhile, data gained from interview sessions revealed four dominant themes in supervisors’ perceptions of their assessment strategies including instructional scaffolding, time efficiency, students’ engagement, and researcher independence. Despite some limitation such as limited number of participants and inadequate research instruments, this study provides pedagogical implication including the necessity to facilitate students with relevant trainings to help improve their thesis writing skills. Suggestions for future research are also presented.
Exploring an Artificial Intelligence as Automated Feedback Program in EFL Writing
This study investigates the effectiveness of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools, namely Grammarly, QuillBot, and Ginger Software, in providing automated feedback for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) writing among Indonesian undergraduate students. It examines the potential of these AI-powered applications in identifying and correcting grammatical, punctuation, and clarity issues and paraphrasing in student writing. This research applied a descriptive qualitative method involving document analysis and interviews. The study involved comparing these tools' corrective feedback and conducting interviews with EFL writing students to understand their perceptions of using these tools. The research findings indicate varying levels of error detection and correction suggestions across the tools, with some differences in their efficiency. While Grammarly, QuillBot, and Ginger Software show promise in enhancing EFL writing skills, the study highlights the importance of not solely relying on these tools. Key findings reveal that Grammarly excels in grammatical accuracy, QuillBot offers superior paraphrasing capabilities, and Ginger provides limited feedback in comparison. It suggests that integrating AI feedback with traditional methods of teacher and peer reviews can lead to optimal writing outcomes. The paper also discusses students' perceptions of using these tools, noting a preference for Grammarly due to its simplicity and effectiveness. Students reported improved grammar and motivation but exhibited tendencies toward over-reliance, potentially limiting critical thinking and independent writing skills. However, some students exhibited over-reliance on these tools, potentially hindering their critical thinking and independent writing skills. The study emphasizes the importance of using AI-powered tools strategically, alongside human editing and critical thinking practices, to maximize EFL writing development.
Discourse Markers in the Introductory Section of Research Articles in National accredited Journal
Discourse markers provide writers with signaling devices to connect ideas and guide readers in grasping the connection of ideas in the texts. An introductory section of a journal article represents a unique text which should be written with clear and interconnected arguments. This paper aims to reveal how discourse markers play vital roles in realizing the development of the arguments in this knotty text. To achieve this, introductory sections of articles published in a nationally accredited journal were examined. Using Fraser's (2009) functional classes of discourse markers, 22 introduction sections were analyzed employing text analysis to determine the usage of these markers. It was found that despite employing all types of discourse markers, not all of them were applied appropriately. Their uses may not be in line with their functional classification. Among others, there are three functional classes of discourse markers proposed by Fraser (2009), they are contrastive markers, elaborative markers, and inferential markers. Elaborative markers were the most used type among the different types, followed by contrastive and inferential markers. This implies that authors tended to develop ideas more often, whereas contrastive and inferential markers were used less frequently but were crucial for indicating differences and making conclusions within the texts.
Evaluating Students' Experiential Learning in International Course Program
The University of Medan Area has a vision to become a university that can be recognized at the ASEAN Level, for this reason, from now on, the university has begun to prepare the students to have qualified English skills, one of which is by organizing an International Course Program, which is applied to some courses. This program was first implemented in the even semester of the 2023/2024 academic year and received high enthusiasm from the lecturers and participants. This research adopts a descriptive qualitative approach. Four courses had joined this program, which consisted of 117 participants. The data for this study was gathered using questionnaires filled out by lecturers and students. This study aimed to evaluate the students’ experiential learning in the ICP class, which peeled from the experiential learning phases designed by Wolfe & Byrne in 1975; designing, conducting, evaluating, and giving feedback. The results of this study showed that the international course program had given positive feedback on the pedagogical aspects for the students and the lecturers as well. The students could be involved in new learning experiences, and improve their English language skills, thus for the lecturers, the ICP had given additional insight into teaching methods, and curriculum development.
A Critical Eco-perspective in English Textbook for Indonesian 12th Graders: A Case on Nationally Issued Textbook
Ecological values in textbooks are essential because they help instill environmental awareness and responsibility in students from an early age to support sustainable development. The study addresses how ecological values are portrayed in Indonesian 12th-grade English textbooks. Using a qualitative content analysis framework, this study examines the transitivity system found in the textbook. The analysis emphasizes environmental conservation, sustainable practices, and encouraging cognitive engagement through positively framed language and relatable, contextual examples. Through a thorough exploration of how elements are connected, positive language use, and specific contextual details, the research provides nuanced insights into the representation of ecological values. This research provides valuable insights into the nuanced instructional approach that shapes environmental awareness within the context of these textbooks. These findings suggest that English Language Teaching (ELT) materials for Indonesian students should actively incorporate eco-friendly linguistic elements and emphasize sustainability-oriented pedagogy to cultivate environmental responsibility.
The Use of Graphic Organizer Focusing on Story Elements to Promote Students’ Narrative Writing
This study investigated the impact of using graphic organizers focusing on story elements to enhance the narrative writing ability of sixth-grade students. The research aimed to: (1) examine the effects of graphic organizers on students’ narrative writing abilities, (2) compare students' post-test narrative writing abilities with their pre-test performance, and (3) explore students' opinions on using graphic organizers during the writing process. A pre-experimental design with one group pre-test and post-test was employed, involving 30 sixth-grade students from Marie Kaengkhro School. The students participated in lessons integrating graphic organizers based on Matsuda and Hammill's writing principles. The results indicated a significant improvement in students' post-test scores across all narrative writing criteria, with gains in organization, idea development, and conventions. The paired t-test confirmed the statistical significance of the difference between pre- and post-test scores (t = 11.79, p < .001). Student feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with 95% reporting that the graphic organizers helped them organize their ideas and improve their narrative writing skills. The findings suggest that graphic organizers effectively enhance narrative writing skills, particularly in EFL contexts. Future research could explore the long-term effects of this approach across different educational settings.
Rhetorical Structure of University Promotional Brochures Written by Indonesians at Undergraduate and Graduate Programs
The purposes of this research were to know the rhetorical structures of university brochures of undergraduate and graduate program and the differences of them in term of moves and steps. This research was qualitative and quantitative in nature; in other words, it employed mixed method. Qualitative data was taken in the forms of university brochures communicative purposes narrations, whereas quantitative data in the form of move and step frequency and percentage. The rhetorical structure are as follows: service Provider Overview, presenting academic service, Internationalism, presenting university achievement, presenting student life, Presenting the location of the service, Validating the effectiveness of service provided, Special notes. From those moves and steps structures, all the moves proposed by Barabas are found where service provider, presenting academic, presenting students life, presenting service location, and special notes are 100% obligatory for undergraduate level; service provider, presenting academic, special notes are 100% obligatory. For steps, university names, university emblems, university departments, academic programs, procedure applications, contact information are 100% obligatory in undergraduate and university names, university emblems, brochure titles, university departments, academic programs are 100% obligatory. The differences between undergraduate and graduate promotional brochures are on the move of validating the effectiveness of service provided, from steps numbers on respective moves, the status obligatory or optional of moves and steps.
Enhancing Public Speaking Skills among EFL Learners through the Peer Teaching Method: A Mixed-Methods Study
This research investigates the effectiveness of the Peer Teaching Method (PTM) in improving public speaking skills among English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners in a tertiary education setting. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods. The research involved 25 EFL learners who participated in a peer teaching intervention, which was evaluated through pre- and post-intervention speaking assessments and in-depth interviews. The results showed significant improvements in pronunciation accuracy, vocabulary usage, fluency, and confidence levels and lowering the public speaking anxiety among the participants. The qualitative findings highlighted the supportive and collaborative nature of the peer teaching environment, which fostered a sense of shared responsibility for learning, reduced anxiety, and promoted confidence in public speaking. The research 's findings contribute to the growing body of literature on collaborative learning methods in language education, suggesting that the Peer Teaching Method is a valuable approach for enhancing public speaking skills and promoting psychological readiness among EFL learners.
Shadowing Technique to Improve the Students’ Pronunciation Ability in Narrative Text
This research is based on a study that looks at how shadowing technique can help eighth grade students at SMPN 37 Semarang improve their pronunciation. The purpose of this study was to find out how shadowing technique can improve pronunciation in one type of texts, a narrative text. This study aims to determine the following: (1) students' pronunciation achievement in narrative text before using the shadowing technique; (2) students' pronunciation achievement in narrative text after using the shadowing technique; and (3) to find out whether there is a significant improvement in students' English pronunciation in narrative text through the use of shadowing technique. The methodology of this study includes pre-experimental research. The pre-test and post-test are used in this study are how the researcher gathers data. In the data analysis, the researcher employs statistical computation using SPSS. This study used one eighth-grade class in SMPN 37 Semarang as its sample. There are 33 students in the class. The research’s data was gained from the students’ voice recordings. It is therefore evident from the pre- and post-test means. The pre-test outcome is 61.82. After receiving the treatment, the post-result is 90.85. Furthermore, the outcome of the hypothesis indicated that Ha is accepted. T-count exceeded T-table (17.693 > 1.694), which suggests that the shadowing technique noticeably improved pronunciation.