International Journal of Education Management and Religion
Vol. 3 No. 1 (2026): January 2026

From Proposal to Manuscript: How Constructivist Pedagogy Improves Research Proposal Writing among EFL Undergraduates

Ismail (Unknown)
Arismunandar (Unknown)
Abdul Haling (Unknown)



Article Info

Publish Date
17 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study investigates how constructivist pedagogy enhances the research proposal and manuscript writing competence of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) undergraduates. Responding to the challenges of low academic writing quality and limited publication outcomes in Indonesian higher education, the study implemented a twelve-week constructivist intervention integrating guided inquiry, peer collaboration, project-based learning, and reflective practice. A mixed-method quasi-experimental design was employed, combining quantitative (pretest–posttest) and qualitative (reflective journals and interviews) data. Participants comprised 22 students enrolled in a Research Proposal Writing course at Universitas Muhammadiyah Enrekang. Quantitative results revealed a statistically significant improvement across all five writing dimensions—Conceptual Clarity, Argument Development, Methodological Coherence, Language Accuracy, and Organization—with a large effect size (Cohen’s d = 2.18). Students’ writing self-efficacy also increased substantially in cognitive, linguistic, and regulative domains (p < .001), reflecting enhanced confidence, autonomy, and reflective awareness. Thematic analysis of qualitative data identified four major patterns of growth: (1) deepened understanding of research logic, (2) increased collaborative engagement, (3) development of reflective and self-regulated learning, and (4) shift from dependence to autonomy. The integration of both data strands confirms that constructivist pedagogy improves not only writing performance but also higher-order cognitive and affective capacities, enabling students to view writing as a process of inquiry rather than a static product. The findings extend constructivist learning theory within EFL contexts and provide an instructional model for fostering academic literacy and research competence aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education).

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Journal Info

Abbrev

ijemr

Publisher

Subject

Religion Humanities Education Social Sciences Other

Description

International Journal of Education Management and Religion is a multidisciplinary academic journal that explores the complex intersection of education management and religious values in various cultural and international contexts. The journal provides a platform for academics, educators, and ...