Implementing Language Laboratories in COE Classes: The TPACK Framework Application between Expectation and Realities. The Case of L1 & L2 EFL Students at the University of Ain Temouchent.

Abstract

The rapid worldwide advancement of technology has exponentially accelerated, driven by cutting-edge innovations in various fields. Remarkably, a massive technological revolution has significantly transformed the education sector, profoundly impacting teaching and learning, especially language laboratories. These laboratories are designed to provide students with exposure to real-life English language usage. This study aims to measure the extent to which the Technology Pedagogy and Content Knowledge framework is applied in the laboratory in Comprehension and Oral Expression classes and to explore the effectiveness of language laboratories in enhancing students’ speaking skills at the University of Ain Temouchent. This study employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches, leading to triangulation of the study in order to increase the credibility and validity of the research findings, including non participant longitudinal classroom observations, semi-structured in-depth interviews with four Comprehension and Oral Expression teachers and two technicians in addition to a questionnaire that was administered to around 368 EFL students, where only 191 students took part in the study. The analysis of the findings was based on the Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) framework of Information and Communication Technology integration, which revealed that both teachers and students highly value the implementation of the language laboratory for teaching-learning. However, the laboratories face various challenges, such as outdated equipment, insufficiently trained teachers to operate the devices, limited teaching resources, time constraints, and tight schedules. These factors significantly hinder the quality and effectiveness of the language laboratories. With that, the study at hand suggests a series of principles and procedures aimed at enhancing the implementation of laboratory practices.