cover
Contact Name
Yunisrina Qismullah Yusuf
Contact Email
yunisrina.q.yusuf@usk.ac.id
Phone
+6282272620820
Journal Mail Official
sielejournal@usk.ac.id
Editorial Address
Department of English Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education Universitas Syiah Kuala Jalan Tgk. Hasan Krueng Kale No. 3, Kopelma Darussalam Banda Aceh, 23111, Indonesia
Location
Kab. aceh besar,
Aceh
INDONESIA
Studies in English Language and Education
ISSN : 23552794     EISSN : 24610275     DOI : -
Core Subject : Education,
Studies in English Language and Education (SiELE) is a peer-reviewed academic journal published by the Department of English Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Indonesia. The journal presents research and development in the field of teaching and learning of English language, general linguistics and literature. Authors must register to this journal before submitting their work and they must follow the Author Guidelines of the journal. Submissions that do not adhere to the guidelines provided will be rejected. Please submit your article through the online submission of this journal. You may address further inquiries to the Editor at sielejournal@usk.ac.id. From 2014-2020, SiELE Journal published twice a year, in March and September. From 2021 onwards, it publishes three times a year in January, May, and September. The journals have a policy of “Zero Tolerance on Plagiarism”. We recommend that authors check their articles with plagiarism prevention tools (ithenticate.com, turnitin.com, etc.) before submission.
Articles 954 Documents
Does it really help? Exploring the impact of Al-Generated writing assistant on the students English writing Rahmi, Regina; Amalina, Zahria; Andriansyah, Andriansyah; Rodgers, Adrian
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 11, No 2 (2024)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v11i2.35875

Abstract

The increasing use of tools that assist English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners in achieving writing fluency has drawn attention to the rapidly evolving role of AI in education. This study evaluates an AI-generated writing assistant in English language learning, that is the ParagraphAI text generator, focusing on its potential impact and effectiveness for L2 learners writing skills. This AI-powered writing software curates writing content according to writers preferences. Four seventh-semester EFL students were selected using homogeneous purposive sampling. Data collection involved tests and questionnaires, with subsequent analysis including text comparison to measure Lexical Diversity indices, followed by descriptive analysis. The results indicate that while the AI writing assistant aids in correcting grammatical errors and enhancing text cohesion and coherence, it lacks content density at times. In some instances, the intended message and thoughts of the students were not effectively conveyed, leading to the inclusion of ideas unrelated to the initial topic. This study underlines the importance of considering linguistic and content-related aspects in evaluating AI-generated writing assistants. While the tool enhances grammatical accuracy and structural coherence, further refinement is needed to address deficiencies in content density. The analysis of four seventh-semester EFL students offers valuable insights into the evolving AI in education, prompting considerations for optimizing these tools to better meet the diverse needs of language learners and educators.
Subversion of neo-imperialist hegemony: A postcolonial study of Red Birds by Mohammed Hanif Tilwani, Shouket Ahmad; Hassan, Ahdi
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 11, No 1 (2024)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v11i1.31206

Abstract

Although the erstwhile colonies in the Third World are free from the colonial occupation, the imperialist hegemony continues, to be resisted in the societies. For, such enterprise has provided the pretext for the concepts of Self and Other followed by occupation, a reign of violence and terror loosened upon the natives. This paper aims to study Red Birds (2018) a novel by Mohammed Hanif to highlight the plight of the Other with their aggressive vitality and fervor of resistance to counter the imperialist agenda-hegemony. As qualitative research, it employs the postcolonial method, while seeking theoretical insights from the arguments of Orientalism by Edward Said, and the theory of hegemony by Antonio Gramsci to be interpretive in nature to analyze the text. It explores how the text, gleaned selectively from the novel offered, like Orientalism a fabric of textual analyses that is highly critical of the Eurocentric notions and hegemony of the Western world. It underlines the ways and practices sketched by the novel through the troubling encounter of the characters from the East to the West to offer a subversive narrative to the failure of the efforts and narratives of the West. For better analyses of the text to underline the American neo-imperialism and the native dreams of subversion, it takes to the tone of Gramscian precepts to conclude that the powerful subjugates through hegemonythe geo-political method used to gain indirect imperial dominance which is maintained mainly through ideology instead of using means like economic force, or coercive strategies.
Exploring collaborative scriptwriting and virtual drama performance: Enhancing English language education through technology integration Inderawati, Rita; Eryansyah, Eryansyah; Vianty, Machdalena; Zuraida, Zuraida; Hayati, Rita; Muthmainnah, Muthmainnah; Putri, Ermalati
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 11, No 2 (2024)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v11i2.35993

Abstract

The present study elaborates on the process of collaborative scriptwriting for drama and the implementation of virtual platforms for theatrical performances. The qualitative design approach was used to provide a detailed explanation of how the virtual drama performance about The Spread of Islam in the 16th Century by Ratu Bagus Kuning was rehearsed and recorded. The subject of the study was 18 graduate school students who took the Appreciation and Literature Teaching course in a Graduate School of English Education at a state university in Indonesia. The data obtained from observation, interview, and documentation were analyzed by utilizing a thematic process. The result of the study reveals two main findings: it emphasizes innovative scriptwriting and video presentation in virtual educational drama, and it also shows the communication, cooperation, critical thinking, and creativity involved in writing drama scripts and performing virtually. The study highlights the process of collaborative drama script writing, focusing on Palembangs heroic tale of Ratu Bagus Kuning. Using the universitys LMS for dialogues, research, and creative collaboration, students prepared for a virtual drama performance. They paired up to draft scenes, actively applying 21st-century skills, such as critical thinking and creativity. Peer feedback and revisions improved script quality. Despite continuity issues and technical constraints, students showed resilience and adaptability. Rehearsals and the final virtual performance demonstrated their dedication and innovation. The integration of technology and cultural sensitivity highlighted virtual dramas transformative potential, emphasizing communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity.
Social literacy practices of Afghan and Somali refugees in a transitional setting Othman, Juliana; Wei, Lim Jia
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 11, No 1 (2024)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v11i1.30256

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to explore the social literacy practices of Afghan and Somali refugees in a transitional context. Although refugees have been the subject of previous research in various domains, our understanding of their literacy practices in urban areas, particularly in Malaysia, is still limited. The lack of literacy research in this setting exposes a gap in the current literature aimed at better understanding refugee literacy practices in a transitional situation. Thus, this study examines urban refugee literacy experiences via the lens of literacy as a social practice. It was exploratory in nature and used a qualitative methodology. Face-to-face interviews with four refugees were conducted at two community centres to collect primary data. In addition, field notes based on community centre visits provided by the participants were used as a secondary data source in the study to understand the literacy experiences of the participants better. The findings indicated that participants enacted literacy practices in their transitional setting for three primary purposes: to increase their funds of knowledge, to enact personal agency, and for community building. These results challenge the stereotype that refugees are powerless and highlight avenues or ways in which refugee communities can be supported in a transitional context.
Students and lecturers experiences in courses provided for the English thesis defense examinations Samad, Iskandar Abdul; Fitriani, Siti Sarah; Nomnian, Singhanat; Bahri Ys, Syamsul; Sofia, Sofia
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 11, No 1 (2024)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v11i1.33080

Abstract

Thesis Defense Examination (TDE) is an assessment that most undergraduate students around the world have to pass in order to graduate from universities. Some students can pass the examination satisfactorily, while others fail due to their poor performance. In the EFL general context, the issue of poor performance of undergraduate students in the TDE conducted in English is a piece of common knowledge among lecturers as the examiners and students as the examinees. Within the Indonesian context, this study aims at investigating students and lecturers experiences in Research Methodology (RM) (focusing on written competence) and Seminar on ELT (SoELT) (focusing on oral competence) courses, where the case was taken from the English Education Department of a public university located in Banda Aceh, Indonesia. By using a purposive sampling technique, we involved five students who have passed RM and SoELT, two lecturers who teach RM, and two lecturers who teach SoELT as the participants in this qualitative research. Interviews were employed to gather the data to address the investigation. We consulted Hyland (2004) for the analysis of the teaching and learning of written competence, and Alptekin (2002) to analyze the teaching and learning of oral competence in classroom activities. The results of the analysis show that there are matches and mismatches between what was experienced by the students and what the lecturers experienced. We also found that some activities in the courses hindered students from being competent in their performance in TDE.
Academic and recreational reading attitudes among primary students in a rural Malaysian village Yulia, Astri; Joshi, R. Malatesha; Husin, Nor Azilah; Nadarajan, Na~Thinamalar Magiswary; Mohd Zin, Norhayati; Nadarajan, Cheli
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 11, No 2 (2024)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v11i2.35011

Abstract

Reading is crucial for development and educational outcomes, yet access to literacy resources and supportive environments is uneven, particularly in rural and low-income areas. Positive reading attitudes are linked to better reading achievement, but research on these attitudes among ESL speakers in non-Western, rural contexts remains limited. This study explores the attitudes of 4th and 5th graders towards recreational and academic reading in a rural Malaysian village, assessing students who participated in a reading program. Utilizing the Elementary Reading Attitude Survey, data were gathered from 74 of the 120 participants, achieving a 62% response rate. Analysis through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) revealed a nuanced relationship between childrens reading attitudes and their engagement with various reading contexts and activities. Findings underscore a pronounced preference for recreational over academic reading, with both types of reading attitudes significantly interrelated. This suggests the programs environment and involvement of reading partners may significantly shape childrens reading perceptions. Moreover, the study highlights the pivotal role of the reading context, indicating a direct correlation between childrens positive perception of their reading environment and their engagement levels. While the study did not delve into the impact of socio-economic status on program effectiveness, it signals the need for further research across diverse cultural settings to fully understand the efficacy of reading programs. The research concludes that after-school reading initiatives are instrumental in enhancing childrens academic and recreational reading attitudes, providing valuable insights for educators, policymakers, and researchers focused on literacy development.
Revealing the potential of ChatGPT for English language teaching: EFL preservice teachers teaching practicum experience Kusuma, I Putu Indra; Roni, Marianus; Dewi, Kadek Sintya; Mahendrayana, Gede
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 11, No 2 (2024)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v11i2.34748

Abstract

The potential of ChatGPT as a novel Artificial Intelligence (henceforth, AI)-powered language model for language instruction, particularly for preservice teachers (henceforth, PSTs), remains unclear since earlier studies mainly provided theoretical concepts that have not yet been empirically verified. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to unleash the potential of ChatGPT for English language teaching and professional development. This qualitative study employed a phenomenological approach. The participants in this study were eight preservice English as a foreign language (henceforth, EFL) teachers at an Indonesian public university who were completing teaching practicums. Combining online and offline meetings, this study used in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Inductive thematic analysis was employed to analyze the data, and the results show that the PSTs used ChatGPT for four main purposes (innovative teaching content creation and presentation, collaborative instructional strategies, development of effective assessments, and language proficiency improvement) to improve their teaching techniques during the teaching practicums. The results also suggest that ChatGPT could provide comprehensive and relevant information. Still, at some points, it also has some drawbacks regarding the quality and accuracy of the information. Although ChatGPT has several disadvantages, the participants had a positive view of ChatGPTs value to novice teachers professional growth. This study offers three implications for improving English language teaching and preservice teacher professional development.
Measuring the English vocabulary acquisition of Japanese learners Ishikawa, Yoshie; Otaki, Ayano; Okamura, Hiromu; Shirahata, Tomohiko
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 11, No 1 (2024)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v11i1.30460

Abstract

The measurable vocabulary knowledge of Japanese learners of English (JLEs) has yet to be fully investigated. This study, therefore, attempts a detailed investigation of JLEs vocabulary knowledge to clarify the relationship between the frequency of words and their difficulty level and to identify the factors that affect the difficulty of vocabulary learning. We tested 192 university-level JLEs on 1,035 verbs, requesting that they choose a correct Japanese translation. The average number of correct answers for each verb was compared with its frequency ranking. Moreover, the characteristics of verbs that received high and low percentages of correct answers were examined. The three major findings were as follows. First, the average number of correct answers was 751.97 (72.65% of the verbs investigated). Second, the average number of correct answers decreased as the frequency of the verb decreased. However, this tendency diminished beyond the 4,000-word level. Finally, not a few low-frequency verbs garnered a high percentage of correct answers; these were verbs that included affixes or were English loanwords that were possibly known to JLEs. However, other low-frequency verbs received a low percentage of correct answers because they had abstract or multiple meanings and lacked clues that could facilitate an understanding of the words meaning. We concluded that these were the main factors affecting the degree of difficulty in learning each vocabulary item. Regarding this studys pedagogical implications, efficient use should be made of English-based loanwords and affixes, and university-level JLEs should intentionally learn low-frequency words.
Analyzing semantic shifts in English and German by exploring historical influences and societal dynamics Asri, Wahyu Kurniati; Rhamadanty, Winda Ayu Utami; Burhamzah, Muftihaturrahmah; Alamsyah, Alamsyah
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 11, No 2 (2024)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v11i2.37460

Abstract

This research examines the mechanisms of semantic change in English and German, focusing on comparing and contrasting these processes across the two languages and investigating the influence of major historical events and societal shifts. By utilizing digital text corpora, libraries, archives, and modern digital media, the study conducts qualitative analyses, including case studies and discourse analysis, to explore semantic evolution. Thematic analysis was employed to thoroughly examine and interpret the data, allowing for the identification of recurring patterns, themes, and significant insights. The results showed that both English and German undergo significant semantic shifts driven by a metaphorical extension (i.e., narrowing or broadening of meanings, pejoration and amelioration, frequency and pathway of change, cultural and historical influences) and historical events and societal shifts that influence semantic change (i.e., wars and conflicts, industrialization, technological advancement, globalization, and cultural exchange, societal movements, and ideological shifts). The role of metaphorical extension is seen in adapting language to technological advancements while highlighting linguistic evolution through narrowing and broadening meanings influenced by cultural, historical, and linguistic factors. Additionally, pejoration and amelioration reflect societal changes and attitudes. Historical events and societal shifts, such as wars, industrialization, technological advancements, globalization, and social movements, significantly impact semantic changes in both English and German. These external influences catalyze language use and meaning shifts, illustrating the interaction between language and human experience.
English literacy learning loss during the COVID-19 pandemic in Indonesia Gustine, Gin Gin; Setyarini, Sri; Rodliyah, Rojab Siti
Studies in English Language and Education Vol 11, No 2 (2024)
Publisher : Universitas Syiah Kuala

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.24815/siele.v11i2.34888

Abstract

This study explores the impact of the COVID-19-induced school closures in Indonesia on the decline of secondary school students learning, particularly in their English literacy. While numerous studies have delved into the repercussions of school closures on literacy skills in European countries, Australia, and the USA, such investigations have been relatively limited in Asia, particularly within the Indonesian context. Employing a qualitative approach for impact assessment, this research gathered data from diverse sources, including online surveys, one-on-one interviews, and focus group discussions. The survey involved 140 English teachers from four Indonesian provinces, including Java, Sumatra, Riau Islands, and Bali provinces. Ten English teachers were selected to participate in the individual online interviews, followed by a focus group discussion with four teachers. Within an inductive approach and thematic analysis framework, data were analysed, and five primary literacy skills emerged from the analysis that show a decline during the period of school closures: having critical thinking while reading, drawing inferences from texts, summarising text content, having good attitudes toward writing, and composing longer paragraphs. These initial findings, although on a small scale, are anticipated to help educators, school administrators, and policymakers in the Indonesian education sector in devising more effective plans for addressing unforeseen challenges in the future, including the development of programs to help students recover from learning loss.