Educational Research and Reviews

  • Abbreviation: Educ. Res. Rev.
  • Language: English
  • ISSN: 1990-3839
  • DOI: 10.5897/ERR
  • Start Year: 2006
  • Published Articles: 2007

Full Length Research Paper

21st Century Skills and Learning Environments: ELT Students' Perceptions

Feyza Nur Ekizer
  • Feyza Nur Ekizer
  • English Language Teaching Department, Necmettin Erbakan University, Turkey.
  • Google Scholar
Seyda Sari Yildirim
  • Seyda Sari Yildirim
  • English Language Teaching Department, Necmettin Erbakan University, Turkey.
  • Google Scholar


  •  Received: 13 April 2023
  •  Accepted: 15 May 2023
  •  Published: 30 June 2023

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the perceptions of English Language Teaching (ELT) students regarding 21st century skills and learning environments. A qualitative content analysis method was used, which involved conducting semi-structured interviews with 62 ELT students. The findings of the study revealed that ELT students perceive critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, creativity, and effective communication as essential 21st century skills. They also believe that these skills can be developed through engaging and dynamic learning environments that incorporate technology, project-based learning, and real-world applications. The results of this study have important implications for ELT educators and curriculum developers, as they suggest the need to create learning environments that are engaging, dynamic, and incorporate technology, project-based learning, and real-world applications. The findings also highlight the importance of preparing ELT students for success in the 21st century by developing 21st century skills. This study provides valuable insights into ELT students’ perceptions of 21st century skills and learning environments, which can inform the design of ELT curricula and the development of teaching practices.

 

Keywords: 21st century skills, learning environments, 4c skills, English language teaching, English Language Learning, English as a Foreign Language.