Date of Award

2024

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Education (MEd)

First Advisor

Dr. Mweru Mwingi

Department

Institute for Educational Development, East Africa

Abstract

Students at tertiary institutions, like National Technical Award level 4, are encouraged to master writing proficiency to succeed in writing assignments and examinations. Since academic achievements depend on writing activities, it is better to find a better strategy that can improve poor writing proficiency at this level. The current study looks into how blog-assisted language learning can help NTA Level 4 students become more proficient essay writers. The study was conducted in the Mwanza region, Tanzania. The objectives of the study were to determine the current writing proficiency levels of NTA level 4 students in essay writing before using blog-assisted language learning. Second, to examine the development of writing proficiency among NTA level 4 students in essay writing while using a BALL tool. Third, to assess the impact of BALL on writing proficiency of essay writing after using the blog. An action research design was employed. Students' current writing levels were established through pre-assessments. During the BALL intervention, formative assessments tracked progress. Post-assessments evaluated the overall impact. Qualitative methods including interviews, document analysis, and FGDs were used. Students' writing samples and lecturer interviews provided data on baseline skills and development. FGDs explored students' experience using BALL. An inductive approach was used to identify themes on baseline writing, key BALL features, challenges, benefits and changes observed. Findings were supported by comparisons to existing literature. Baseline assessments found variations in proficiency and reliance on traditional teaching. BALL increased engagement through blogs' interactive features. Students demonstrated improved grammar, organization and coherence in post-assessments. Therefore, BALL proved effective in enhancing essay writing skills. It supported development through continuous peer feedback on blogs. Further research could explore integrating BALL in other subject areas apart from communication skills and levels to promote language learning through technology-supported collaboration.

First Page

1

Last Page

103

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