University English Language Teachers’ Use of Digital Platforms for Online Teaching

Abstract

Digital disruptions have affected higher learning institutions and forced educators across the globe to use digital platforms for online teaching. This paper presents the findings of a pilot study that investigated (1) the usage of digital platforms for teaching English at a Malaysian university and (2) how university English language teachers employed digital platforms for online teaching. An online questionnaire survey was completed by 19 university English teachers who volunteered to take part. Cross-tabulation analysis with frequency count and percentage distribution was used to analyse data, and short open-ended responses were coded for themes. Online web meeting platforms for synchronous language classes, learning management systems for task-based language learning, and cross-platform instant messaging applications for interactions and class discussions were found to be the most popular digital platforms among university English language teachers. Teachers optimised those three platforms for teaching English online and believe that they are adequate for teaching with poor internet accessibility. Finally, this paper offers suggestions for effective use of digital platforms for teaching English online at a university.