Multimodal Approach in Online EFL Class Using Islamic Learning Materials: Students' Perspective

Abstract

This study aims to find out how students' perspectives on learning English use 21st century learning strategies through a multimodal approach to teaching English for EFL students. A lecture was conducted online for one semester (four months) by using Islamic topics as learning materials. The learning materials were presented and discussed, then students were asked to write or talk about the topics. This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach to data collection through the provision of questionnaires and interviews with 47 students of the Islamic Broadcasting Program at the Faculty of Islamic Religion at a private Islamic university in Bogor, Indonesia, in the English language course. From the data collected through a set of questionnaires and interviews it can be concluded that, 1) the majority of respondents are interested in using Islamic materials to learn English; 2) the majority of respondents state that Islamic materials assisted them in improving their English language skills; 3) The majority of respondents are interested in using online Islamic resources using multimodal approach. Furthermore, the respondents stated that the multimodal approach to learning is very interesting, effective, and can help them to learn English. In addition, students wished that direct interaction between lecturers and students could continue to function well. Hence, the use of multimodal-based Islamic materials could provide interactive opportunities between lecturers and students.