From Words to Wonders: EFL Students' Perceptions of Digital Storytelling for Language Learning

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54855/ijli.24344

Keywords:

Digital Storytelling, Multimedia, EFL, Teaching, Learning

Abstract

This study investigated the use of digital storytelling (DST) in university-level foreign language classes in Vietnam, focusing on students' perspectives. While the term "digital storytelling" may not be widely recognized, it has been adopted by educators, students, and others worldwide as a way to create short films by integrating multimedia elements. The research problem addressed in this study was to extensively examine students' views on incorporating DST projects into their foreign language courses to enhance students' confidence, interaction, and motivation. Data was gathered through various methods, including questionnaires, interviews, observations, student-made videos, and online comments, to describe and interpret the case from the participants' (83 EFL students) perspective. The results indicate that DST positively impacted students' language confidence, critical engagement, motivation, and interpersonal relationships. Students recognized the advantages of DST, such as enhancing language skills and boosting engagement, but also acknowledged the need for more time, resources, and a clear educational strategy to fully integrate DST into the language learning curriculum.

Author Biographies

Phan Thi Anh Nga, HCMC University of Foreign Languages - Information Technology, Vietnam

Ms. Phan Thi Anh Nga is a peripatetic teacher, prolific writer, and eloquent speaker who empowers educators to think outside the box and critically examine their established practices by asking, “What is best for my students?” For the past fifteen years, she has inspired researchers and teachers at all levels with her passion and joy for the teaching and learning process. Phan began her teaching career at Hue University of Foreign Languages and International Studies (HUFLIS) in 2005 and is now a full-time teacher at the HCMC University of Foreign Languages - Information Technology (HUFLIT), Vietnam. Her interests include Professional Development, English for Specific Purposes, and Technology in Teaching and Learning English, all of which demand genuinely creative thinking. Furthermore, she actively participates in presenting and writing articles for numerous national and international conferences, showcasing her commitment to advancing educational practices.

Le Huong Hoa, Department of Foreign Languages and Informatics, People’s Police University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Le Huong Hoa, a senior lecturer of English at the Department of Foreign Languages and Informatics, People’s Police University, Ho Chi Minh city, is mainly interested in EFL teaching and learning. Her research activities focus on student motivation, language learning, teaching strategies and professional development. She got her MA at Victoria University, Australia and her PhD degree in TESOL at Hanoi University of Languages and International studies, Vietnam (VNU) and was appointed as Associate Professor in 2022. She has taken part in teaching, doing research and supervising many undergraduates and postgraduates in TESOL programs. Email: hoalehuong@yahoo.com. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0000-2099-7256

Phan Gia Anh Vu, HCMC University of Education and Technology, Vietnam

Phan Gia Anh Vu is currently a senior lecturer,  and the dean of the Faculty of  Applied  Science, HCMC University of Education and Technology, Vietnam. Email: vuphan@hcmute.edu.vn. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0008-7412-5232

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Published

06-11-2024

How to Cite

Phan, T. A. N., Le, H. H., & Phan, G. A. V. (2024). From Words to Wonders: EFL Students’ Perceptions of Digital Storytelling for Language Learning. International Journal of Language Instruction, 3(4), 59–92. https://doi.org/10.54855/ijli.24344

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Research Article