Rizki Nurhidayah Sitompul
Universitas Islam Sumatera Utara

Published : 3 Documents Claim Missing Document
Claim Missing Document
Check
Articles

Found 3 Documents
Search

Duolingo in Basic English Learning: Student Engagement and Achievement Rizki Nurhidayah Sitompul
Jurnal Pendidikan dan Sastra Inggris Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): Jurnal Pendidikan dan Sastra Inggris
Publisher : Lembaga Pengembangan Kinerja Dosen

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.55606/jupensi.v5i3.6321

Abstract

This study investigated the effectiveness of the Duolingo app in supporting Basic English learning and examined its impact on student engagement and academic achievement. The study was conducted with a group of first-semester students over a five-month period. During this time, quantitative and qualitative data were collected through pre-tests, post-tests, classroom observations, and monitoring of student interactions with the app. The findings indicated significant improvements in students' basic English competencies, particularly in vocabulary mastery, grammar recognition, and reading comprehension. Students demonstrated greater motivation, consistency, and independence in their learning processes, largely due to Duolingo’s gamified features such as rewards, levels, and interactive exercises. These results align with the researchers' field observations, which revealed that many first-semester students at the Islamic University of North Sumatra initially had limited English proficiency, especially in vocabulary and basic sentence structure. The integration of Duolingo into regular learning activities proved highly effective in addressing these gaps, offering an accessible and learner-friendly platform that complements traditional face-to-face instruction. Overall, this study suggests that Duolingo can serve as a valuable supplementary tool in basic English teaching, particularly for beginner-level students, and recommends its broader application in similar educational contexts, as it can provide a strong foundation for English vocabulary development among novice learners.
An Analysis of English Speaking Difficulties in First-Semester Students Izzati Suhaila; Rizki Nurhidayah Sitompul
Jurnal Pendidikan dan Sastra Inggris Vol. 5 No. 3 (2025): Jurnal Pendidikan dan Sastra Inggris
Publisher : Lembaga Pengembangan Kinerja Dosen

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.55606/jupensi.v5i3.6334

Abstract

This study investigates the various speaking difficulties faced by English as a Foreign Language (EFL) students, with a particular focus on Management and Accounting students. Despite having several years of formal English education, many students still struggle to communicate effectively and confidently in spoken English. This situation highlights a significant gap between classroom instruction and students’ actual communicative competence. The study aims to identify the root causes of these challenges and examine how linguistic and psychological factors interact to hinder students’ oral performance. These psychological factors are often reinforced by the lack of adequate speaking practice both inside and outside the classroom, resulting in limited exposure to authentic language use. The findings indicate that students’ speaking difficulties are not solely rooted in linguistic deficiencies, but are strongly influenced by affective factors and insufficient communicative interaction. Therefore, the study recommends that speaking instruction integrate more interactive and student-centered activities, such as group discussions, role-plays, and task-based speaking tasks, in order to create a more supportive and engaging learning environment. Additionally, teachers are encouraged to provide positive feedback and foster an atmosphere that allows students to feel comfortable taking risks when using English.
An Analysis Of Theme and Meaning in Robert Frost's The Road not Taken Izzati Suhala; Rizki Nurhidayah Sitompul
International Journal of English and Applied Linguistics (IJEAL) Vol. 6 No. 2 (2026): Volume 6 Number 2 August 2026
Publisher : ITScience (Information Technology and Science)

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.47709/ijeal.v6i2.8774

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between theme and meaning in English literature. Literary works serve as a medium through which authors express ideas, emotions, values, and social realities. Among the various elements of literary analysis, theme and meaning play a significant role in helping readers understand the deeper messages embedded within a text. The purpose of this study is to identify the major themes presented in English literary works and analyze how these themes contribute to the construction of meaning. This research employs a qualitative descriptive method using a literary analysis approach. Data are collected from selected English literary texts and analyzed through close reading and thematic interpretation. The analysis focuses on identifying thematic patterns and examining how literary elements such as characterization, setting, plot, and symbolism support the development of meaning. The findings indicate that themes function as the central framework through which literary meanings are communicated. Themes such as identity, love, conflict, morality, and social issues provide insights into human experiences and cultural values. Furthermore, meaning is not fixed but emerges through the interaction between the text and the reader, allowing multiple interpretations depending on social, historical, and cultural contexts. The study demonstrates that theme and meaning are closely interconnected and contribute significantly to readers’ understanding of literary works. In conclusion, the analysis of theme and meaning enhances literary appreciation and critical interpretation. This study contributes to literary criticism by providing a deeper understanding of how thematic structures shape meaning in English literature and influence readers’ interpretations of literary texts. Keywords: English Literature, Theme, Meaning, Literary Analysis, Literary Interpretation