The Preferred Use of Google Classroom Features for Online Learning in Indonesian EFL Classes

Abstract

Google Classroom has been frequently used as an e-learning platform to substitute for Learning Management System (LMS), and the use of its features (Classwork, Stream, People, etc.) varies among teachers with different goals, focuses, and familiarity. However, research has not addressed how the selection of Google Classroom features affects students learning experience. Therefore, this study was aimed at finding out how Google Classroom features should be used to better facilitate online learning among students in English as a foreign language (EFL) classes. The data for this research was collected from ten leading schools in Indonesia, and 373 students participated in this study. Two questionnaires were used and delivered online, i.e. a Google Classroom Use questionnaire with Google Classroom features, consisting of 23 items, and a Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) questionnaire specified for EFL, consisting of 21 items with four constructs, i.e. usefulness, ease of use, intention, and actual system of use. The data were analyzed using multiple linear regression model to determine the effect of each Google Classroom feature on students’ perception of TAM indicators. The hypotheses were rejected at the significance level of 0.05. The research results show that there is a correlation between both variables. The results also show that Classwork and Stream features were significant predictors for almost all TAM indicators. In this case, Classwork feature covers learning activities, and Stream feature includes interaction or communication facilities. Based on these results, it can be suggested that e-learning needs to facilitate students learning activities (e.g., quizzes, assignments, materials, and schedules) and student interaction/communication (e.g., announcements, notices, discussions, and shared posts). The results of this study contribute to educators and e-learning developers to consider maximizing the use and design of learning activity and interaction features due to their significance in online learning.