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Empowering Chinese undergraduates' business english writing: Unveiling the efficacy of DingTalk-Aided Problem-based language learning during Covid-19 period

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Abstract

Amidst the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, this study investigates the impact of Problem-based Language Learning (PBLL) using DingTalk on enhancing Business English Writing skills among Chinese undergraduates. Employing a mixed-method approach, the research involved two phases. In the quantitative phase, a twelve-week quasi-experimental study was conducted. The control group received traditional Business English Writing instruction, while the experimental group utilized the PBLL + DingTalk method. Analysis of pre-test and post-test scores using SPSS 27.0 revealed a significant improvement in the experimental group's writing abilities, with their post-test scores averaging 5.3275 points higher than the control group. In the qualitative phase, semi-structured interviews were conducted with students from the experimental group. Participants expressed high engagement, motivation, and satisfaction with the PBLL + DingTalk approach, highlighting its effectiveness in interactive problem-solving and technology integration. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of PBLL + DingTalk in improving Business English Writing skills among Chinese undergraduates, even during challenging circumstances like the Covid-19 pandemic. The combination of quantitative results and qualitative insights underscores its practical impact and relevance for language educators, emphasizing the importance of innovative teaching methods in adapting to evolving educational landscapes.

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Data availability

The datasets generated during and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Northeast Forestry University, Harbin City, Heilongjiang Province, China

    Lixuan Sun & Hui Dong

  2. Department of Language and Literacy Education, Faculty of Education, Universiti Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

    Lixuan Sun & Adelina Asmawi

  3. Harbin Normal University, Harbin City, China

    Xiaotian Zhang

  4. University of International Business and Economics, Harbin City, China

    Xiaotian Zhang

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  1. Lixuan Sun
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  2. Adelina Asmawi
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  3. Hui Dong
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  4. Xiaotian Zhang
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Correspondence to Lixuan Sun.

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Sun, L., Asmawi, A., Dong, H. et al. Empowering Chinese undergraduates' business english writing: Unveiling the efficacy of DingTalk-Aided Problem-based language learning during Covid-19 period. Educ Inf Technol 29, 239–271 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-023-12288-1

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