Indonesian Journal of Educational Innovation
Vol. 2 No. 2 (2026): May - August

A Self-Referential Thematic Song in Early Childhood English Vocabulary Learning: A Classroom Case Study of the ‘This Is Me!’ Strategy

Nurholiza Izzati (University of Mataram)
Muh. Azhar Kholidi (National Sun-Yat Sen University)
Haerun Nisa (Yogyakarta State University)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Aug 2026

Abstract

This qualitative descriptive case study examined the use of the self-referential thematic song “This Is Me!” to introduce English self-introduction vocabulary to 15 children aged 3–4 years in Group A at the Rinjani Early Childhood Education Center, University of Mataram. Data were collected through structured classroom observations, an interview with the classroom teacher, and learning documentation across three 30-minute sessions. The data were analyzed through reduction, coding, display, and verification using categories of participation, pronunciation, responses to self-introduction questions, body movement, confidence, and peer interaction. Source and method triangulation strengthened the credibility of the findings. Repetition, rhythm, movement, visual cues, and opportunities to insert children’s own names helped them progress from hesitant imitation and Indonesian responses to simple, guided English expressions such as “My name is…,” “I am…,” and “What’s your name?” The strategy also encouraged verbal and nonverbal participation and greater observed confidence during classroom interactions. These findings suggest that personally themed songs can provide a developmentally appropriate and contextual medium for introducing vocabulary, although the evidence is limited to a small classroom case. The study illustrates how self-referential lyrics, movement, repetition, and visual support can facilitate children’s transition from imitation to simple English self-expression.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jpkjl

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Mathematics Other

Description

The Indonesian Journal of Educational Innovation (IJEI) specializes in publishing high-quality research articles that focus on critical issues in the field of education, with primary areas of coverage including: Educational Management: Covers the planning, organizing, implementation, and evaluation ...