Development of a Sustainable Web Application for a Blended Learning Environment to Improve Standardized English Test Performance of Undergraduates at King Mongkut's University of Technology North Bangkok, Rayong Campus

Kusuma Bangkom

doi:10.66947/pasaa.v72i1.2587

Authors

Kusuma Bangkom King Mongkut’s University of Technology North Bangkok

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.66947/pasaa.v72i1.2587

Abstract

English proficiency tests are now being required by many universities in
Thailand to benchmark students’ language proficiency and to prepare
students for their future work. However, students continue to
underperform despite compulsory English coursework. Even though
English courses are compulsory at KMUTNB, our undergraduates are
struggling to achieve the desired score in standardized English tests such
as TOEIC or K-STEP. Such performance has led to losing employment
opportunities or postgraduate study. Consequently, this mixed-method
research aims to study the effectiveness of a web application via a blended
environment to improve reading and listening skills. A complimentary
English course through a web application and Zoom classes for eight
months was offered to 100 non-English majors. The results were positive
in terms of test achievement, increasing scores in both the listening and
reading parts. In addition, satisfaction with the web application was
highly rated, suggesting satisfaction. Nevertheless, the attendance rates,
both on the web application and Zoom, were decreasing considerably as
time went by, raising issues of self-regulated learning. While the web
application demonstrated technical feasibility and positive user
perception, findings suggest that free voluntary courses may be
insufficient for improving language skills without adequate motivational
support systems, such as structured guidance, regular feedback, and
community engagement to enhance learner motivation and commitment.

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