Computer-mediated Corrective Feedback on Students’ Second Language Essay Writing Skills

Abstract

The integration of technology in language learning has become a valuable matter to provide language learning efficiency and language learning experience. Recently, Computer-mediated Corrective Feedback (CMCF) has been considered for its effectiveness as a technology-integrated pedagogical method to provide feedback on various writing aspects and develop writing performance thus improving writing skills. Likewise, this study investigated the effect of Computer-mediated Corrective Feedback (CMCF) on first-year undergraduate students’ second-language essay writing skills at a private university in Banten. Accordingly, this study employed a quantitative method that involved 30 students who were assigned into two groups. Specifically, 15 students were assigned into an experimental group in which the lecturer implemented computer-mediated corrective feedback (track changes, recast feedback, and metalinguistic feedback) whereas the rest students were assigned into a control group that applied automated writing evaluation. The findings showed that there was a significant effect of computer-mediated corrective feedback on students’ second-language essay writing scores, fluency, and accuracy in the experimental group. The students in the experimental group achieved higher scores and better writing fluency and accuracy than those in the control group. Hence, this study revealed that computer-mediated corrective feedback has a remarkable effect in developing students’ performance in second language essay writing skills. Furthermore, this study revealed that the role of lecturer in implementing computer-mediated corrective feedback remains crucial to successfully enhance the writing performance and develop writing skills of students in second language essay writing.

 

Keywords: computer mediated corrective feedback; ESL learners; writing skills; essay writing