Tesis

Language learning strategies of the high achievers of toefl junior test in an Islamic boarding school: a case study / Nanang Heri Setyo Dwi Cahyo

Abstrak
Cahyo Nanang Heri Setyo Dwi Cahyo. 2024. Language Learning Strategies of The High Achievers of TOEFL Junior Test in An Islamic Boarding School A Case Study. Thesis Master Program in English Language Education Universitas Negeri Malang. Advisors (1) Prof. Dr. Sri Rachmajanti Dip.TESL M.Pd. (2) Siti Muniroh S.Pd M.A. Ph.D. Key Words Language learning strategies high achievers TOEFL Junior test Islamic boarding school The growing focus on English literacy within Indonesian education is highlighted by Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) which consistently reveal Indonesia s lower rankings in literacy. The 2022 PISA results in particular positioned Indonesia in the lower global tiers especially in reading literacy which affects students ability to engage effectively with English materials. Despite the critical importance of English proficiency in both global and national contexts there is a notable gap in research regarding the specific language learning strategies (LLSs) used by high achievers on a standardized test like the TOEFL Junior especially within unique educational settings such as an Islamic boarding school. To address this challenge this study investigates the LLSs used by high achievers on the TOEFL Junior Test within the unique context of an Islamic boarding school. Conducted at SMP Al Izzah Islamic Boarding School Batu mdash an institution known for its integration of Islamic values with academic excellence mdash the research aims to fill gaps in the existing literature by examining the strategies of high-achieving students in this specialized setting. This study seeks to explore the strategies employed by these students to excel in the TOEFL Junior test and to evaluate how these strategies contribute to their success. The central issue addressed is understanding how high achievers in such settings approach language learning specifically how they manage and apply strategies to enhance their English proficiency. The study adopts a qualitative case study approach employing the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL) 7.0 semi-structured interviews and document analysis to thoroughly investigate LLSs in practice. The sample includes six high-achieving female ninth-grade students from four distinct groups along with their English teacher. These students were chosen based on their exceptional TOEFL Junior Test scores which fall into the accomplished (785 ndash 860) or superior (865 ndash 900) ranges and their attainment of CEFR Level B2 in at least two of the test s three sections. Additionally they achieved a score above 92 on the school s English final test where a passing grade is 80 and a predicate A is above 92. This selection criterion ensures that the participants are well-suited for examining strategies linked to high achievement. Data analysis combines quantitative descriptive statistics with qualitative thematic analysis integrating the frequency and intensity of strategies reported in the SILL with thematic insights from interview transcripts and document analysis. The findings reveal that high achievers predominantly use metacognitive strategies such as setting learning goals organizing study schedules and self-monitoring progress. These strategies help them plan and track their learning effectively. Compensation strategies involving creative problem-solving like guessing meanings from context and using synonyms are also frequently used to overcome language barriers. Cognitive strategies such as engaging with English media (movies songs books) significantly aid language acquisition by improving listening reading skills and expanding vocabulary. Memory strategies including repetition and mnemonic devices are moderately used for vocabulary retention. Affective strategies and social strategies though less common still contribute to the learning process. The interview findings reveal several key factors contributing to high achievement in English among students. Goal setting and self-evaluation are central with students setting specific challenging targets that drive their motivation and study habits. They frequently assess their performance to address and improve weaknesses. Techniques such as visualization and memorization are crucial for vocabulary retention. Adaptability including creative problem-solving and the use of gestures helps students navigate language barriers. Self-discipline and effective time management are vital especially given their busy schedules. The quality of teaching and consistent practice also play significant roles. Additionally the supportive boarding school environment with its accessible teachers and nurturing community significantly enhances continuous learning and overall well-being. Several suggestions for future research include expanding the sample size to include multiple Islamic boarding schools from various regions which would enhance the generalizability of findings and provide a broader understanding of high achievers in TOEFL Junior Tests. Additionally including diverse educational settings could reveal whether observed strategies are unique to Islamic boarding schools or applicable in different contexts. Investigating the long-term impacts of these strategies on academic and professional achievements would offer insights into their effectiveness and sustainability. Finally exploring the role of technology and online learning tools in language acquisition could uncover new strategies and resources that improve students proficiency and engagement in contemporary education.

Informasi Detail

DDC

Rt 420.76 CAH l

Prodi

Universitas Negeri Malang. Program Studi Pendidikan Bahasa Inggris, 2024.

Deskripsi Fisik

xvii, 149 lembar. : ilus. ; 30 cm.

Bahasa

No Reg

00565/RT/24

Edisi

Tesis (Pascasarjana)--Universitas Negeri Malang. 2024

Subjek

1. BAHASA INGGRIS - TES DAN PENGUKURAN
2. TOEFL
3. ENGLISH - TESTS AND MEASUREMENTS

Pembimbing

1. Prof. Dr. Sri Rachmajanti, Dip.tesl, M.pd; 2. Siti Muniroh, S.pd, M.a., Ph.d

Lampiran Berkas