Exploring vocabulary learning needs and preferred media among fifth-grade English as a foreign language learners

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26418/jeltim.v7i2.88031

Keywords:

Group-work, ICT, materials, need analysis, vocabulary

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the target needs and learning needs of the EFL students of Fifth-Grade Elementary Students in Yogyakarta. The innovation of this research lies in employing survey questionnaire, interview, and observation to provide an in-depth analysis regarding vocabulary learning among elementary EFL students. The participants in the study are 29 students and 2 teachers. Employing explanatory sequential design, the data collected were analyzed using descriptive quantitative and thematic qualitative methods to better understand the results and draw meaningful conclusions about the student’s learning preferences. The findings indicate that the students find it difficult to acquire new English vocabulary and tend to ask their teachers what the words’ meanings are. The survey questionnaire revealed that the students prefer pair or group activities rather than individual activities indicating a preference for peer support in the learning process. They like to visualize learning by using pictures, videos, and flashcards as it helps them to memorize new vocabulary. From the interview with the teachers, it became evident that there is a need for supplementary instructional materials that incorporate group work, engaging learning media, and the use of Information Communication and Technology (ICT) to enhance students’ vocabulary mastery. In conclusion, the study recommends a student-centered approach by combining group work and interesting learning media to enrich students’ vocabulary acquisition. Keywords: Group-work; ICT; materials; need analysis; vocabulary

Author Biographies

Scolastica Eva Talan, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta

Scolastica Eva Talan is an LPDP scholarship awardee pursuing a Master's in English Language Education at Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta. She has authored book reviews published in Innovation and Language Learning and Teaching (2024) and Latinos Education (2024). She presented at the Fifth International Conference on Teacher Professional Development in the Age of AI (2024), and her current research focuses on teachers' preparedness to integrate Generative AI in writing instruction.

Yuyun Yulia, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta

Yuyun Yulia is a staff member of the English Education Department, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY). Her research interests are English language teaching in a foreign language context, curriculum, discourse studies, evaluation research, and English for children. In 2014, she obtained a Doctorate degree from RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia, in the evaluation of English language teaching in 12 Indonesian Junior High Schools.

Sari Hidayati, Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta

Sari Hidayati is a staff member of the English Education Department at Universitas Negeri Yogyakarta (UNY). Her research interests include English language teaching in a foreign language context, teachers' professional development, and Artificial Intelligence in Education (AIEd). In August 2025, together with other lecturers from Yogyakarta State University, she conducted a teacher training session on utilizing AI for 18 high school teachers from Kulon Progo and Bantul.

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Published

2025-11-01

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Vol. 7 No. 2 (2025): October 2025

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Articles

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