Exploring Digital Tools in Language Education:Benefits and Challenges
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31571/bahasa.v11i1.10066Keywords:
benefits, challenges, digital toolsAbstract
This research aims to explore in depth the benefits and challenges arising from the evaluation and implementation of digital tools in the context of language education. Through interviews and a review of recent scholarly journals, the study underlines how technology integration has revolutionised language teaching and learning methodologies. Numerous studies have consistently shown that digital tools significantly increase learner engagement and motivation (Zulfikhar et al., 2024; Mohammedi & Al-Ghafri, 2023), even through platforms such as social media (Ariantini et al., 2021), creating a more interactive and dynamic learning environment. Other crucial benefits include the ability of digital tools to provide access to authentic and personalised learning resources (Zulfikhar et al., 2024), enabling learning experiences that are more relevant and tailored to individual needs. The result is a marked improvement in language skills, including reading, writing, vocabulary acquisition and overall communication skills (Hasanudin, 2018; Al-Abdi, 2022). In addition, technology supports flexibility and independence of learning (Mohammedi & Al-Ghafri, 2023) and facilitates instant feedback and collaboration (Radzhabova & Al-Abdi, 2023).
However, the adoption of digital tools also comes with serious challenges. One of the main barriers is the digital divide and unequal access to technological infrastructure and internet connectivity (Al-Ghamdi, 2023), which has the potential to deepen educational disparities. Lack of teacher training and digital literacy (Ma'arif, 2023; Shahbazi & Soltani, 2018) is a critical issue that demands continuous professional development programmes (Al-Malki & Al-Ghamdi, 2023). Technical problems and infrastructure limitations (Radzhabova & Al-Abdi, 2023) often disrupt the smooth learning process. Furthermore, time constraints for educators (Ma'arif, 2023) and attitudes or resistance to technology adoption (Sabic & Trosic, 2023) also affect implementation effectiveness. In summary, while digital tools offer transformative opportunities, their successful integration relies heavily on comprehensive strategies that address infrastructural, pedagogical and humanist barriers to realise effective and inclusive language learning environments.
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References
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