Student Engagement in English Language Classes: An Evaluative Study

Abstract

This study aimed at exploring the extent to which EFL learners get engaged in the English language classroom activities. Student engagement was assessed using a mixed method research design; quantitatively during a survey done by the students, and qualitatively through structured interviews with the teachers. The two tools (the survey and the structured interviews) were both designed by the researcher. The study involved 60 second-year preparatory EFL students enrolled at Tareq Ben Zyad Prep. School in Sohag City, Egypt and 20 EFL teachers working at three governmental public schools. Results on students' engagement obtained from both the survey and the analysis of the interview data showed that students suffer from sever disengagement in English language classroom activities. Based on these results, a number of recommendations and suggestions are provided.