EFL adolescent learners’ perceptions of digital multimodal composing tasks and task outcomes: A longitudinal study

Abstract

AbstractAlthough the value of digital multimodal composing (DMC) in language learning is being increasingly recognized, longitudinal studies focusing on second language (L2) students’ DMC practices are scarce. To fill the gap, this multi‐case study aimed to explore English as a foreign language adolescent learners’ evolving perceptions of the role of DMC tasks in English learning and the relationship between the quality of DMC task outcomes and learners’ perceptions over 7 months. Eight DMC tasks were implemented in an English composition class, and perceptions and task outcomes of three focal participants were tracked over time. Data were collected from multiple sources, such as a learner background questionnaire, a digital literacy questionnaire, semi‐structured interviews, reflection surveys, and the scores of students’ DMC tasks. Findings indicate that although all three participants acknowledged a beneficial role of DMC practices, each participant's perception exhibited different patterns over time: two kept the similar perceptions (negative and positive for each) and one showed a change in her perceptions (negative to positive). Results suggest that this difference could be attributed to various factors, including perceived level of digital literacy, the ongoing learning experience with DMC tasks, and understanding of multimodality. Regarding the relationship between the quality of DMC outcomes and students’ perceptions, although all three learners tended to perform better on their tasks over time, participants’ attitudes seemed to mediate the quality of DMC products. Pedagogical implications of the study are discussed in light of important considerations when implementing DMC tasks in L2 classrooms.