Autonomous learning and the use of digital technologies in online English classrooms in higher education

Abstract

This study investigated to what degree students can be autonomous in EFL classroom by deploying different digital technologies, including <i>Google Form, Quizizz, Quizlet, Kahoot!</i>, and <i>Socrative</i>, and the efficacy of these tools in online English classrooms. Utilizing a quasi-experimental research design, a sample of 48 first-year railway mechanical technology students from an Indonesian polytechnic was used and assigned to control and experimental groups. Data was gathered through a survey questionnaire and two tests (pre- and post-test), and was analyzed using descriptive statistics, the <i>N</i>-gain formula, the paired-sample t-test and ANCOVA. The results revealed learner autonomy in listening, structure, and reading skills, encompassing self-reliance, information literacy, linguistic confidence, and learning strategy. Digital classes incorporating <i>Google Form</i>, <i>Quizizz</i>, <i>Quizlet</i>, <i>Kahoot!</i>, and <i>Socrative </i>were more effective than traditional classes in terms of learning outcomes. Therefore, this study proposed a learning model utilizing digital technologies and autonomous learning concepts to improve students’ learning outcomes.