ESL Students’ Technical Challenges in Web-Based Learning: A Bibliometric Analysis

Isyaku Hassan, Mohd Nazri Latiff Azmi, Mohd Hazli Yah @ Alias, Mahendran A/L Maniam

Abstract


Web-based learning has transformed the educational environment in recent years. A key question that requires specific contextual answers is how technological advancements have influenced teaching and learning practices in language education across all levels. Consequently, research underscores the need for ongoing investigations to help discover solutions and prevent pedagogical issues resulting from technological factors. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the most used relevant terms and recurring topics regarding the technical challenges of English as a Second Language (ESL) students in web-based learning and their frequency over time. The study focused on a 10-year bibliometric analysis of 19,725 research articles on the technical challenges of ESL learners in the web-based learning environment. The analysis used “ESL learners”, “technical challenges”, and “web-based learning” as keywords. An internet-based search was performed to locate recent and relevant articles published between 2014 and 2024 from the Web of Science database. The findings revealed contributions from 41,124 authors. A total of 5,771 of these documents were single-authored. On average, each document featured 2.85 co-authors, suggesting collaborative efforts among researchers. In particular, 21.72% of these documents were internationally co-authored, which reveals a degree of global collaboration. The analysis also showed sustained interest in issues regarding foundational language learning among ESL students, with a significant focus on key terms such as “language”, “English”, and “acquisition”. The emerging trends highlighted the increased relevance of learner engagement and artificial intelligence. This study could direct future research in exploring dominant themes to help educators and researchers develop effective instructional strategies to enhance the learning experiences of ESL students in digital environments.

https://doi.org/10.26803/ijlter.24.4.14


Keywords


bibliometric analysis; English as a second language; learner engagement; technical challenges; web-based learning

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References


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