ESP STUDENTS’ PREFERENCE FOR MULTIMODAL LEARNING

Abstract

Learning is always multimodal. Unbeknownst to us, English language learning inherently incorporates multiple modes. However, there is limited study asking students which modes they preferred the best during ESP learning along with their reasons. This study aims to investigate student preferences for multimodal learning in their ESP course. This study involved 117 students enrolling in an ESP course. Using a survey, this study reveals that in terms of multimodal learning preferences, most students showed a preference for a combination of pictures, followed by illustrations. Additionally, a significant portion of students favored audio, while others preferred speech. Facial expressions were found to be effective by a considerable number of students, and some expressed a preference for the use of colors. These findings emphasize the wide variety of modalities that students find beneficial in their learning process. The open-ended survey revealed that students perceive multimodal learning as interesting, non-boring, interactive, and stimulating to their senses.