School of Languages at XJTLU Conference 2024

Introduction: This research explores the use of online platforms for fostering reflective practices in English for Academic Purposes (EAP) classes. Reflective practices are essential for language learning, aiding in self-assessment, cognitive development, and language acquisition (Dewey, 1933; Kolb, 1984; Schön, 1983). The study integrates the KWL Plus framework (Carr & Ogle, 1987) with Tencent Docs, a Chinese online document sharing platform, aiming to contribute to the discussion on “What students are reflecting upon when asked to engage in reflective practices”.
Methodology: The study involves 30 EAP students divided into control and experimental groups. The experimental group was instructed to follow the framework of 'K' (what learners Know), 'W' (what they Want to know), 'L' (what they have Learned), and a 'Plus' phase of reflecting and writing on their language learning journey each week on Tencent Docs for 10 weeks. Text analysis of their reflections, including content, sentiment, and language use, will be conducted following the framework by Beijaard, Stellingwerf, & Verloop (1997). Additionally, post-study interviews will provide deeper qualitative insights.
Expected Outcomes: The research aims to provide insights into how students engage with reflective practices, particularly in an online setting, and how these practices influence their language learning process.
Significance: This study offers valuable insights into EAP students' reflective processes, contributing to the broader discourse on reflective practices in language learning, emphasizing the role of reflection in technology-enhanced learning environments (Dabbagh & Kitsantas, 2012).