Challenges and opportunities in the use of technology for teaching english as a foreign language
Abstract
This study explores the challenges and opportunities in the use of technology for teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL). Using a qualitative approach with a case study method, data were collected through interviews with teachers, students, and school administrators, as well as classroom observations and document analysis. Key findings indicate that significant challenges include limited access to technology, a lack of technical skills among teachers, and concerns about privacy and data security. However, technology also offers significant opportunities, such as increased student motivation, more adaptive learning, and broader access to educational resources. The findings highlight the need for comprehensive strategies to address these challenges, including better teacher training and the development of technological infrastructure. This study provides valuable insights for designing policies and practices that support the effective integration of technology in EFL teaching, with the hope of improving the quality of education in the digital era.
References
Fikri, M. H., Syakur, A., & Sholihah, D. A. (2024). “I want to speak like native”: A narrative inquiry on a student’s beliefs of global Englishes. Journal of Qualitative Research in Language Education, 1(1), 1–7.
Fikri, M. H., Yasin, M. I., Sudrajad, W., Syakur, A., Azizah, L. N., Jauhari, I., & Ananto, G. D. (2024). The Effectiveness of Using Think Aloud Strategy on Students’ Reading Achievement in Narrative Text. International Journal of Sustainable English Language, Education, and Science, 1(1), 8-13.
Fikri, M. H., Umar, A. S., Yasin, M. I., & Sudrajad, W. (2023). The Effectiveness of PPP (Presentation, Practice, Production) Method in Teaching English Vocabulary. EDUCATUM: Scientific Journal of Education, 1(3), 110-118.
Godwin-Jones, R. (2015). Emerging technologies: The evolving roles of language teachers: Trained coders, local researchers, global citizens. Language Learning & Technology, 19(1), 10-22.
Hockly, N. (2018). Technology in English language teaching: The challenges and the opportunities. ELT Journal, 72(4), 373-381. https://doi.org/10.1093/elt/ccy037
Levy, M., & Stockwell, G. (2006). CALL dimensions: Options and issues in computer-assisted language learning. Routledge.
Pardo, A., & Siemens, G. (2021). Ethical considerations and privacy concerns in learning analytics. British Journal of Educational Technology, 52(1), 77-90. https://doi.org/10.1111/bjet.13026
Pegrum, M., Oakley, G., & Faulkner, R. (2018). Schools going mobile: A study of the adoption of mobile handheld technologies in Western Australian independent schools. Australasian Journal of Educational Technology, 29(1), 66-81.
Stockwell, G. (2012). Mobile-assisted language learning. In M. Thomas, H. Reinders, & M. Warschauer (Eds.), Contemporary computer-assisted language learning (pp. 201-216). Bloomsbury Academic.
Syakur, A., Sulistyaningsih, S., & Musyarofah, L. (2024). The Perceptions Between Javanese and Madurese Speakers Towards Their Dialects in English Conversation. Celtic: A Journal of Culture, English Language Teaching, Literature and Linguistics, 11(1), 56-72.
Syakur, A., Sudrajad, W., Winurati, S., & Tilwani, S. A. (2023). The Motivation of Students and Their Exposure to Learning Loss After the Pandemic. Studies in Learning and Teaching, 4(3), 622-633.
Wang, S., & Vásquez, C. (2020). Emerging technologies and language learning: New horizons and challenges. CALICO Journal, 37(3), 309-331. https://doi.org/10.1558/cj.38343
Warschauer, M. (2000). The death of distance? Technology, pedagogy, and the role of computers in education. In J. McGrath & G. H. Levinson (Eds.), Technology and language teaching (pp. 73-94). University of Michigan Press.
Zhang, L. J., & Zou, D. (2021). Digital tools in second language writing: Enhancing engagement and collaboration. System, 99, 102506. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.system.2021.102506
Yasin, I. (2021). Students' Perception Toward the Use of Zoom for Teaching Speaking. Language-Edu, 10(6).
Yasin, M. I., Fikri, M. H., Sudrajad, W., Syakur, A., Ananto, G. D., & Jauhari, I. (2024). Improving Students Speaking Ability through Picture at Junior High School. International Journal of Sustainable English Language, Education, and Science, 1(1), 27-34.
Tambunan, A. R. S., Lubis, F. K., Sari, W. S., Andayani, W., & Fikri, M. H. (2023). Representation of Irony in WhatsApp Group Chat. Lire Journal (Journal of Linguistics and Literature), 7(1), 43-55.
