The Effect of Blogs on Jordanian EFL Eighth-grade Students’ Achievement in English

Abstract

This quasi-experimental study assesses the usefulness of blogs as teaching and learning tools for the EFL at Jordanian schools in Amman. The study focuses on the increased significance of the English language for the international competence of Jordan and its workforce. The study also assesses the benefits that blogs can provide for eighth-grade students. To answer the question of what effect do blogs have on improving reading and writing skills, the researchers used a sample of students from two schools in Amman, and undertook a quasi-experimental study by applying a pretest-posttest design. The researchers selected a sample of 72 eighth-grade EFL students in Amman and divided them into control and experimental groups. The regular EFL curriculum was administered in both groups, but supported with a blog component for the experimental group. The results indicated a significant improvement in the students’ reading comprehension skills and writing competence when using blogs. The study recommends that teachers promote active participation of the students on blogs.