Journal of English Language and Education
Vol 11, No 3 (2026)

From Reflection to Revision: Exploring Self-Regulated Learning in EFL Writing Portfolios

Ana Zulianingrum (Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
29 May 2026

Abstract

This study addresses the limited attention given to learners’ internal self-regulatory processes in portfolio-based EFL writing instruction, particularly in non-Western tertiary contexts such as Indonesia. While previous research on self-regulated learning (SRL) in EFL writing has often emphasized measurable writing outcomes, including grammatical accuracy, coherence, and text organization, less is known about how portfolios support learners’ goal setting, self-monitoring, and reflection during the writing process. Employing a qualitative case study approach supported by descriptive writing-performance data, this study investigated 30 Indonesian undergraduate EFL learners enrolled in a writing course. Data were collected through writing portfolios, semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and reflective journals over a four-week instructional period. Thematic analysis revealed that portfolio-based writing tasks fostered SRL behaviors by encouraging iterative drafting, strategic revision, and critical self-assessment. However, students also encountered challenges related to time management, limited reflective depth, and difficulty self-assessing higher-order writing skills. These findings highlight the need for explicit instructional scaffolding, structured reflection prompts, and sustained teacher and peer feedback. Overall, the study suggests that portfolio-based writing instruction can enhance learner autonomy and writing proficiency by creating a structured, reflective, and process-oriented learning environment.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jele

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Other

Description

Journal of English Language and Education (pISSN: 2597-6850 and eISSN: 2502-4132) is a journal that focuses on researching or documenting issues in education, language education, applied linguistics, English education, English language teaching, English Literature, language assessment and ...