THE ROLE OF DIGITAL TOOLS IN EFL LEARNING: ENHANCING COMMUNICATION AND COLLABORATION SKILLS IN ONLINE ENVIRONMENTS

Authors: Gulnara Rizakhodjayeva & Khalyk Nigora

ABSTRACT

This study explores the role of digital tools in enhancing communication and collaboration skills in online environments for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learner. A true-experimental design was employed, involving ninth-grade students at Tursynkhan Aitzhanov Secondary School. The research investigated the impact of an intervention by analyzing the pre-test and post-test scores of 30 ninth-grade students assigned to experimental and control groups. The results indicated that digital tools, including online resources and learning platforms, significantly improved students’ comprehension, vocabulary, and language skills. Additionally, these tools fostered a more positive attitude towards learning and communication in English, particularly for students who had previously struggled with traditional learning methods. This study demonstrates that digital tools can be an effective approach in supporting EFL learners’ development, offering a more engaging and accessible way to enhance communication and collaboration skills.

Keywords: digital tools, language learning, group work, motivation, online platforms, educational technologies.

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