Cebu International EFL Conference

Abstract of paper

Author
Mantana MeksophawannagulZ
Chulalongkorn University,Bangkok,
Thailand

Title
The Development of an Online Case-Based Collaborative Learning (CBCL) Module for Business English for Communication

Abstract
This study attempted to develop an English instructional program in order to motivate students to learn as well as improving their skills in Business English for Communication. The  quality of integrating case-based learning (CBL) method  in teaching and learning English for business communication via collaborative learning and e-learning environment was investigated.

This research approach used in this study was R&D (Research and development) with four stages (i.e. planning, research, act and reflect). The research design used in this study was a single group pre-test/post-test design.  There were three research phases: development and trial of the online CBCL Module, the online CBCL Module in practice with 22 RMUTLL students, and revised the online CBCL Module in practice with 32 Maejo University students.

The results showed that there was a significant effect for listening and reading pre-test and post-test scores. For writing and speaking, it could not conclude that students gained the two abilities significantly because students had special treatments to help them learn with the online CBCL Module due to low language ability of students.
Overall, language, studying, and professional skills were enhanced during studying with the online CBCL Module. Students had positive attitudes towards case-based learning (CBL) method and collaborative learning setting.  The quality of the online CBCL Module was rated as a ‘good’ course; however, the results showed that teacher needed to put more energy to teach students if they had low language ability, especially, in this study. Results, discussion, suggestions, and reflection were discussed quantitatively and qualitatively.