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Leaving home to learn: Exploring Acehnese students’ awareness of language development abroad Nur Akmaliyah; Ika Kana Trisnawati; Asma; Sri Kartika Abdul Rahman
Journal of Research in English Language Teaching and Linguistics Vol 2 No 1 (2026): June 2026
Publisher : Early Publishing Group

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.65431/jrell.v2i1.40

Abstract

Studying abroad programs are often linked to positive outcomes; however, less is known about how students from underrepresented regions interpret their progress across different dimensions of language use. This study aims to explore Acehnese students’ perceived language development during study abroad. Using a qualitative approach, seven Acehnese students in diverse international contexts were recruited through convenience sampling. Data were collected by means of semi-structured interviews and later analyzed by using thematic analysis. Six key themes emerged: confidence and agency, immersion-driven development, self-directed learning, interaction-based growth, uneven progress, and academic literacy development beyond linguistic proficiency. The findings show that language development is non-linear and shaped by access to meaningful interaction, levels of social engagement, and the ability to navigate academic and sociocultural contexts. The experiences of the student signify that development is not only about language form, but is also about academic literacy practices and identity negotiation in English-medium contexts. This study provides another perspective on study abroad outcomes, which puts emphasis on the situated and complex nature of language development among multilingual learners from peripheral contexts. Implications of this study are the need for pre-departure preparation that goes beyond language training to incorporate strategies for social integration, self-directed learning, and academic literacy. Institutions in Aceh, in particular, should also provide ongoing support to enhance students’ engagement in academic and social practices abroad.
Speaking Games: Meningkatkan Kemampuan Berbicara Bahasa Inggris Siswa SMA Melalui Zoom Dengan Permainan Interaktif Lina Farsia; Ika Kana Trisnawati; Annisa Sucianda
Jurnal Pengabdian Masyarakat: Darma Bakti Teuku Umar Vol 7, No 2 (2025): Juli-Desember
Publisher : Universitas Teuku Umar

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.35308/baktiku.v7i2.13843

Abstract

Learning English as a foreign language is one of the most important yet difficult skills for high school students to develop. Karena mereka tidak memiliki banyak kesempatan untuk berbicara secara aktif di kelas, banyak siswa di Aceh mengalami motivasi dan keyakinan yang rendah. Dengan menggunakan interactive game-based learning via Zoom, program community service ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan bahasa Inggris siswa. Berbagai jenis speaking games, seperti storytelling, debates, discussions, dan role-playing, digunakan untuk mendorong partisipasi, kreativitas, dan peningkatan confidence siswa. Student high school from several schools in Aceh Province participated in the program, which was conducted online for a period of four months. Students received significant opportunities to use English in a calm and enjoyable setting, which reduced anxiety and encouraged spontaneous communication. Game-based speaking activities increased students' engagement, acquisition of vocabulary, and fluency in expressing ideas. The results of this community service initiative show that integrating digital technology and game-based learning can be an innovative approach to improving English-speaking skills among high school students. The results of this initiative are expected to be published in an accredited SINTA community service journal as a practical model for improving English-speaking skills among students. 
Do we need mother tongue language maintenance in Aceh? Voices from the school setting Mulyani Mulyani; Ika Kana Trisnawati; Syarfuni Syarfuni; Mulyadi Syahputra; Sariakin Sariakin; Rosdiana Rosdiana
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 11, No 2 (2024)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v11i2.34781

Abstract

There is a possibility that the Acehnese language and other locally used languages in Aceh Province could become threatened if the locals do not make efforts to maintain them. This study aims to explore teachers perspectives on maintaining the Acehnese mother tongue in schools. Employing a mixed-methods research design, data was collected through surveys and semi-structured interviews. The survey was distributed via Google Forms to 217 schoolteachers selected through voluntary sampling in Aceh, while interviews were conducted with seven teachers who willingly participated in the study. The results indicate that most teachers agree on maintaining the use of local languages in schools. However, language maintenance may face challenges e.g., globalization, family role, and youth attitude. Hence, teachers recommend that schools should actively promote the use of local languages by designating a special day for celebrating their use and incorporating the languages into local content lessons. This study intends to provide insightful recommendations for policy development regarding the maintenance of local languages in the school setting, particularly in Aceh. It also suggests educational implications, such as integrating these languages into formal schooling and developing educational resources to enhance their use in schools. Furthermore, future research could focus on documenting and preserving local languages, as well as implementing language immersion programs aimed at preserving local languages in Aceh.
Digital storytelling with Acehnese cultural values: A pathway to developing English writing competence Syuja, Sarair; Trisnawati, Ika Kana; Yuniarti, Yuniarti; Taufik, Taufik
Englisia Journal Vol 13 No 1 (2025)
Publisher : Universitas Islam Negeri Ar-Raniry Banda Aceh

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.22373/ej.v13i1.32222

Abstract

Proficiency in English academic writing is a critical competency for university students; however, pedagogical approaches often lack cultural relevance, which can impede engagement and skill development. This study investigated the efficacy of Digital Storytelling (DST) grounded in Acehnese local wisdom as a means to enhance students’ writing skills and reinforce their cultural identity. The pedagogical intervention explicitly encouraged students to integrate traditional Acehnese cultural elements, such as Meugang and Peusijuk, into their English compositions, thereby forging a meaningful connection between language acquisition and cultural heritage. Employing a quasi-experimental design, the research involved a purposive sample of 20 English major students from universities across Aceh. Writing proficiency was measured via pre-test and post-test assessments, while a supplementary questionnaire captured students’ perceptions of the DST methodology. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, applying both descriptive and inferential statistics. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test indicated a statistically significant improvement in overall writing performance, confirming the intervention's effectiveness. Findings demonstrate that students successfully incorporated Acehnese cultural narratives into their writing and reported heightened motivation, engagement, and enjoyment throughout the process. Specific gains were noted in vocabulary expansion, narrative idea generation, and confidence in English self-expression. However, development in technical aspects of writing—such as text organization and coherence—was only moderate, suggesting that DST may be more effective for stimulating cultural engagement and creative expression than for mastering formal writing conventions. These results underline the value of culturally responsive pedagogies in second language writing instruction.
Pelatihan Penulisan Esai Opini dan Mentoring Studi Lanjut bagi Pendidik Perempuan Indonesia Risa Fitria; Grace Amialia Anfetonanda; Ika Kana Trisnawati
Jurnal Pelayanan dan Pengabdian Masyarakat (Pamas) Vol 7, No 4 (2023): Jurnal Pelayanan dan Pengabdian Masyarakat (PAMAS)
Publisher : Lembaga Penelitian dan Pengabdian Masyarakat (LPPM Universitas Respati Indonesia)

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.52643/pamas.v7i4.2608

Abstract

This Community Service aims to help enhance the writing skills of female educators and help them prepare the documents needed for further studies. For this reason, female educators such as lecturers and teachers from various regions in Indonesia were invited to attend virtual tutoring through the Zoom platform. This training and mentoring activities were carried out in several meetings and delivered by several resource persons regarding the techniques of writing opinion essays and supporting documents such as study objective and personal statement, needed to continue studies, especially at foreign universities. Nevertheless, despite having received a positive response from the participants, this training was still limited only to the introduction of opinion essays and structure in essay writing and only concerned with writing study objective and personal statement. Therefore, the recommendation for the following programs is providing training that discusses other types of essays on the IELTS test and other skills needed to improve the English competence of Indonesian female educators. In addition, other writing workshops for female educators are also necessary for postgraduate studies in the future. Keywords: Postgraduate Studies Mentoring, Female Educators, Opinion Essay Writing