Qualitative exploration of EFL students' preferred instructional approaches by native and non-native English teachers

Widyawati, Tutut Indah ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0008-8335-327X, Indah, Rohmani Nur ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6176-048X and Syaifulloh, Burhanudin ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6988-1470 (2025) Qualitative exploration of EFL students' preferred instructional approaches by native and non-native English teachers. Journal of English Language Studies, 10 (1). pp. 24-38. ISSN 2541-5131

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Abstract

The ongoing argument about the effectiveness of Native English-Speaking Teachers (NESTs) versus Non-Native English-Speaking Teachers (NNESTs) raises critical questions about students' preferences and the factors shaping their learning experiences. This study explores 10th-grade English as Foreign Language (EFL) students’ preferences for teaching approaches employed by NESTs and NNESTs. Using a qualitative research design, the study employed thematic analysis to examine data collected through Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and structured interviews with 10 high school students experienced with both NESTs and NNESTs. Findings indicate that students preferred NESTs for clarity of explanation, pronunciation correction, and interactive activities, such as games and group work, which fostered engagement and independent learning. NNESTs, on the other hand, were valued for their structured reliance on course materials and relatable motivational stories. These preferences highlight complementary strengths, suggesting that a balanced integration of both teaching styles could enhance English language learning. The study contributes to the ongoing discourse on the role of native-speaker-ism in English education and calls for teacher training programs that emphasize the unique strengths of NESTs and NNESTs. Future research should include teacher perspectives and observational data for a more comprehensive analysis.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Keywords:	Students Preferences; Native English-Speaking Teachers (NESTs)s; Non-Native English-Speaking Teachers (NNESTs); Instructional Approaches
Subjects:	20 LANGUAGE, COMMUNICATION AND CULTURE > 2003 Language Studies > 200302 English Language 20 LANGUAGE, COMMUNICATION AND CULTURE > 2003 Language Studies > 200303 English as a Second Language 20 LANGUAGE, COMMUNICATION AND CULTURE > 2003 Language Studies
Divisions:	Faculty of Humanities > Department of English Language and Letters
Depositing User:	Rohmani Nur Indah
Date Deposited:	16 Apr 2025 10:12

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