Journal on English as a Foreign Language (JEFL)
Vol 16 No 1 (2026): Issued in March 2026

From words to action: Long-term changes in environmental literacy among EFL students

Sari Karmina (Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia)
Salsabila Firda Hudaya (Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia)
Lestari Setyowati (Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia)
Niamika El Khoiri (Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia)
Latisha Asmaak Shafie (Universiti Teknologi MARA, Perlis, Malaysia)



Article Info

Publish Date
20 Mar 2026

Abstract

While previous research has demonstrated positive short-term effects of such courses, few studies have examined changes sustained over an extended period, particularly in urban contexts facing ecological challenges. This study seeks to explore the long-term impact of integrating environmental topics into essay writing courses on EFL university students’ environmental literacy in Malang, Indonesia. Using a qualitative case study design, semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten students two years after they participated in the course. Thematic analysis revealed significant transformations across cognitive, affective, and behavioral dimensions. Students developed a deeper understanding of environmental issues, formed emotional connections to ecological concerns, and adopted sustainable practices in daily life. They also showed increased motivation to share environmental knowledge with their communities. These findings suggest that essay writing courses that incorporate environmental themes can foster meaningful, long-lasting changes in students’ attitudes and behaviors. This research contributes to the broader discourse on environmental education in EFL settings and highlights the potential of writing courses as a platform for cultivating environmental awareness and action.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

jefl

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

Journal on English as a Foreign Language (JEFL) is a peer reviewed and open access journal on teaching and learning English as a foreign and second language. The journal follows a double blind review policy. The primary objective of this journal is to publish research based articles that delve into ...