Teacher Strategies to Foster Autonomous Writing Skills in Elementary English Classes in the Digital Era
Keywords:
Independent Writing, Teacher Strategies, Writing Autonomy, Teacher Perspectives
Abstract
This study investigates how elementary school English teachers in Batam foster students’ autonomous writing skills in the digital era. While technology offers abundant resources, young learners often depend excessively on teacher guidance or online materials, highlighting the need for effective autonomy-supportive strategies. Using a qualitative design, data were collected from four English teachers through semi-structured and written interviews, then analyzed thematically. The findings show that teachers promote writing independence through scaffolding techniques such as structured planning, guided feedback, and reflective self-evaluation. They also cultivate metacognitive awareness to help students identify and resolve their own writing difficulties. However, limited classroom technology use and varying student motivation levels remain obstacles to developing autonomy. This study contributes to the growing literature on learner autonomy in EFL primary education by demonstrating how adaptive pedagogy can balance digital integration with self-directed learning. The results underscore the importance of reflective, flexible teaching practices that prepare students for independent writing in technology-mediated contexts.
References
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Almusharraf, N. (2020). Teachers’ perspectives on promoting learner autonomy for vocabulary development: A case study. Cogent Education, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2020.1823154
Anggraeni, C. W., Mujiyanto, J., Rustipa, K., & Widhiyanto. (2025). Effects of utilizing self-regulated learning-based instruction on EFL students’ academic writing skills: a mixed-method investigation. Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40862-024-00317-6
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Azhariah, S., Lengkanawati, N. S., & Rodliyah, R. S. (2023). Teacher roles in fostering learner autonomy. SALEE: Study of Applied Linguistics and English Education, 4(2), 440–457. https://doi.org/10.35961/salee.v4i2.829
Basri, F. (2023). Factors influencing learner autonomy and autonomy support in a faculty of education. Teaching in Higher Education, 28(2), 270–285. https://doi.org/10.1080/13562517.2020.1798921
Begum, J. (2019). Learner autonomy in EFL/ESL classrooms in Bangladesh: teachers â€TM perception and practices. International Journal of Language Education, 12–21. https://doi.org/10.26858/ijole.v1i1.6397
Cao, D. T. P., & Pho, D. P. (2024). Learner autonomy in language learning: the development of a rigorous measuring scale. Science & Technology Development Journal - Social Science and Humanities. https://doi.org/10.32508/stdjssh.v8i3.995
Daflizar. (2021). Learner autonomy: a qualitative inquiry into Indonesian tertiary EFL students’ voices. In IRJE |Indonesian Research Journal in Education| |Vol. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.22437/irje.v5i2.10388
Ersoy, E., & Çetin, D. (2023). Investigation of the Relationship Between the Writing Autonomy and Writing Skill of Students Learning Turkish as a Foreign Language. Shanlax International Journal of Education, 11(S1-July), 114–131. https://doi.org/10.34293/education.v11is1-july.6117
Fahira, W., & Iswara, D. (2023). Analysis of students difficulties in early writing learning at the elementary school level. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.15294/lik.v52i2.46248
Fitria, H. (2020). Role of teachers in digital instructional era. Journal of Social Work and Science Education, 1(1), 2020. https://doi.org/http://dx.doi.org/10.52690/jswse.v1i1.11
Gayatri, D. D., & Gaffar, M. A. (2023). The Implementation of Picture Series as Learning Media to Improve Students’ Writing Ability Related to Historical Events in Recount Text. Edunesia : Jurnal Ilmiah Pendidikan, 4(2), 790–803. https://doi.org/10.51276/edu.v4i2.429
Graham, S., & Alves, R. A. (2021). Research and teaching writing. In Reading and Writing (Vol. 34, Issue 7, pp. 1613–1621). Springer Science and Business Media B.V. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11145-021-10188-9
Guay, F. (2022). Applying Self-Determination Theory to Education: Regulations Types, Psychological Needs, and Autonomy Supporting Behaviors. Canadian Journal of School Psychology, 37(1), 75–92. https://doi.org/10.1177/08295735211055355
Hadiati, C. (2021). The functions of pauses in penginyongan daily conversation. Leksika: Jurnal Bahasa, Sastra Dan Pengajarannya, 15(2), 55. https://doi.org/10.30595/lks.v15i2.10668
Ismail, S. M., Nikpoo, I., & Prasad, K. D. V. (2023). Promoting self-regulated learning, autonomy, and self-efficacy of EFL learners through authentic assessment in EFL classrooms. Language Testing in Asia, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40468-023-00239-z
Jaja (2024). Research trends on students’ writing skills: a bibliometric analysis using scopus database. In Journal of Language and Education (Vol. 10, Issue 3, pp. 161–182). National Research University, Higher School of Econoimics. https://doi.org/10.17323/jle.2024.18806
Kaur, B. J. R., Febria, D., & Marsevani, M. (2025). A classroom action research: Empowering students’ English grammar proficiency through PPP (Presentation, Practice, Production) strategy. IALLTEACH (Issues in Applied Linguistics & Language Teaching), 7(1), 239–247.
Lim, W. M. (2025). What is qualitative research? an overview and guidelines. Australasian Marketing Journal, 33(2), 199–229. https://doi.org/10.1177/14413582241264619
Marsevani, M. (2021). Learners’ perception and practice on autonomous language learning in EFL settings. In International Journal of Language and Literature │ (Vol. 5, Issue 1). https://doi.org/doi.org/10.23887/ijll.v5i1.32598
Marsevani, M., & Habeebanisya, H. (2022). A classroom action research: Improving speaking skills through work in pair technique. TLEMC (Teaching and Learning English in Multicultural Contexts), 6(1), 16–22.
Mukramah, C., Mustafa, F., & Sari, D. F. (2023). The effect of picture and text prompts on idea formulation and organization of descriptive text. IJELTAL (Indonesian Journal of English Language Teaching and Applied Linguistics), 7(2), 325. https://doi.org/10.21093/ijeltal.v7i2.1386
Muliyah, P., Aminatun, D., Septian Nasution, S., Hastomo, T., Sri Wahyuni Sitepu, S., & Sufyan Tsauri Majenang, S. (2020). Exploring learners’ autonomy in online language-learning in STAI SUFYAN TSAURI MAJENANG. Getsempena English Education Journal (GEEJ), 7(2).
Mohammadi Zenouzagh, Z., Admiraal, W., & Saab, N. (2023). Learner autonomy, learner engagement and learner satisfaction in text-based and multimodal computer mediated writing environments. Education and Information Technologies, 28(11), 14283–14323. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-023-11615-w
Pratiwi, D. I., & Waluyo, B. (2023). Autonomous learning and the use of digital technologies in online English classrooms in higher education. Contemporary Educational Technology, 15(2). https://doi.org/10.30935/cedtech/13094
Ribahan, & Muslimin, A. I. (2025). Navigating digital learning: Autonomy among EFL students in Indonesia. Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology, 9(2), 1034–1048. https://doi.org/10.55214/25768484.v9i2.4644
Rusdi, L., Mardhiah, A., Muna, H., & Fitriani, S. (2024). Teacher’s role in facilitating EFL autonomous learning through digital assistance: a systematic review (Vol. 1, Issue 1). https://journal.ar-raniry.ac.id/ICELT
Sim, J. S. E., & Ismail, H. H. (2023). Using digital tools in teaching and learning english: delving into english language Teachers’ Perspectives. Creative Education, 14(10), 2021–2036. https://doi.org/10.4236/ce.2023.1410129
Taufiqulloh, T., Nindya, M. A., Sulistyawati, A. E., & Sumekto, D. R. (2025). Investigating Indonesian EFL students’ writing strategies: a framework for self-assessment. Language Testing in Asia, 15(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40468-025-00388-3
Toba, R., Noor, W. N., & Sanu, L. O. (2019). The current issues of Indonesian EFL students’ writing skills: ability, problem, and reason in writing comparison and contrast essay. Dinamika Ilmu, 57–73. https://doi.org/10.21093/di.v19i1.1506
Tran, T. Q., & Duong, T. M. (2020). EFL learners’ perceptions of factors influencing learner autonomy development. Kasetsart Journal of Social Sciences, 41(1), 194–199. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.kjss.2018.02.009
Uli Banjarnahor, R., Wahyuni Manurung, L., & Sidabutar, U. (2023). Website: https://j-innovative.org/index.php/Innovative The implementation of visual-picture sequences on the improve students’ writing ability in grade xi of sma negeri 1 baktiraja, humbang hasundutan. INNOVATIVE: Journal Of Social Science Research, 3, 1215–1125. https://j-innovative.org/index.php/Innovative
Xie, L., & Jiang, L. (2025). Promoting second language writing autonomy through digital multimodal composing. Journal of Second Language Writing, 69. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jslw.2025.101225
Zhang, T. (2024). Effects of self-regulation strategies on EFL learners’ language learning motivation, willingness to communication, self-efficacy, and creativity. BMC Psychology, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-024-01567-2
Agustiawati, H., Novasyari, R., Wati, A., Novianty, M., & Angraini, N. (2024). The Use of picture to improve students’ ability in writing skill of eighth grade students in smp negeri 1 makarti jaya banyuasin sumatera selatan. Journal of Research in Social Science and Humanities, 4(1), 83–94. https://doi.org/10.47679/jrssh.v4i1.95
Al-Mwzaiji, K. N. A., & Alzubi, A. A. F. (2022). Online self-evaluation: the EFL writing skills in focus. Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40862-022-00135-8
Aini, Q., Kristina, D., & Fauziati, E. (2024). Technological and collaborative dynamics in online autonomous writing among Indonesian EFL learners. 8(1). https://doi.org/10.29408/veles.v8i1.24797
Almusharraf, N. (2020). Teachers’ perspectives on promoting learner autonomy for vocabulary development: A case study. Cogent Education, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2020.1823154
Anggraeni, C. W., Mujiyanto, J., Rustipa, K., & Widhiyanto. (2025). Effects of utilizing self-regulated learning-based instruction on EFL students’ academic writing skills: a mixed-method investigation. Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40862-024-00317-6
Aspers, P., & Corte, U. (2021). What is qualitative in research. In Qualitative Sociology (Vol. 44, Issue 4, pp. 599–608). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11133-021-09497-w
Azhariah, S., Lengkanawati, N. S., & Rodliyah, R. S. (2023). Teacher roles in fostering learner autonomy. SALEE: Study of Applied Linguistics and English Education, 4(2), 440–457. https://doi.org/10.35961/salee.v4i2.829
Basri, F. (2023). Factors influencing learner autonomy and autonomy support in a faculty of education. Teaching in Higher Education, 28(2), 270–285. https://doi.org/10.1080/13562517.2020.1798921
Begum, J. (2019). Learner autonomy in EFL/ESL classrooms in Bangladesh: teachers â€TM perception and practices. International Journal of Language Education, 12–21. https://doi.org/10.26858/ijole.v1i1.6397
Cao, D. T. P., & Pho, D. P. (2024). Learner autonomy in language learning: the development of a rigorous measuring scale. Science & Technology Development Journal - Social Science and Humanities. https://doi.org/10.32508/stdjssh.v8i3.995
Daflizar. (2021). Learner autonomy: a qualitative inquiry into Indonesian tertiary EFL students’ voices. In IRJE |Indonesian Research Journal in Education| |Vol. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.22437/irje.v5i2.10388
Ersoy, E., & Çetin, D. (2023). Investigation of the Relationship Between the Writing Autonomy and Writing Skill of Students Learning Turkish as a Foreign Language. Shanlax International Journal of Education, 11(S1-July), 114–131. https://doi.org/10.34293/education.v11is1-july.6117
Fahira, W., & Iswara, D. (2023). Analysis of students difficulties in early writing learning at the elementary school level. https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.15294/lik.v52i2.46248
Fitria, H. (2020). Role of teachers in digital instructional era. Journal of Social Work and Science Education, 1(1), 2020. https://doi.org/http://dx.doi.org/10.52690/jswse.v1i1.11
Gayatri, D. D., & Gaffar, M. A. (2023). The Implementation of Picture Series as Learning Media to Improve Students’ Writing Ability Related to Historical Events in Recount Text. Edunesia : Jurnal Ilmiah Pendidikan, 4(2), 790–803. https://doi.org/10.51276/edu.v4i2.429
Graham, S., & Alves, R. A. (2021). Research and teaching writing. In Reading and Writing (Vol. 34, Issue 7, pp. 1613–1621). Springer Science and Business Media B.V. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11145-021-10188-9
Guay, F. (2022). Applying Self-Determination Theory to Education: Regulations Types, Psychological Needs, and Autonomy Supporting Behaviors. Canadian Journal of School Psychology, 37(1), 75–92. https://doi.org/10.1177/08295735211055355
Hadiati, C. (2021). The functions of pauses in penginyongan daily conversation. Leksika: Jurnal Bahasa, Sastra Dan Pengajarannya, 15(2), 55. https://doi.org/10.30595/lks.v15i2.10668
Ismail, S. M., Nikpoo, I., & Prasad, K. D. V. (2023). Promoting self-regulated learning, autonomy, and self-efficacy of EFL learners through authentic assessment in EFL classrooms. Language Testing in Asia, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40468-023-00239-z
Jaja (2024). Research trends on students’ writing skills: a bibliometric analysis using scopus database. In Journal of Language and Education (Vol. 10, Issue 3, pp. 161–182). National Research University, Higher School of Econoimics. https://doi.org/10.17323/jle.2024.18806
Kaur, B. J. R., Febria, D., & Marsevani, M. (2025). A classroom action research: Empowering students’ English grammar proficiency through PPP (Presentation, Practice, Production) strategy. IALLTEACH (Issues in Applied Linguistics & Language Teaching), 7(1), 239–247.
Lim, W. M. (2025). What is qualitative research? an overview and guidelines. Australasian Marketing Journal, 33(2), 199–229. https://doi.org/10.1177/14413582241264619
Marsevani, M. (2021). Learners’ perception and practice on autonomous language learning in EFL settings. In International Journal of Language and Literature │ (Vol. 5, Issue 1). https://doi.org/doi.org/10.23887/ijll.v5i1.32598
Marsevani, M., & Habeebanisya, H. (2022). A classroom action research: Improving speaking skills through work in pair technique. TLEMC (Teaching and Learning English in Multicultural Contexts), 6(1), 16–22.
Mukramah, C., Mustafa, F., & Sari, D. F. (2023). The effect of picture and text prompts on idea formulation and organization of descriptive text. IJELTAL (Indonesian Journal of English Language Teaching and Applied Linguistics), 7(2), 325. https://doi.org/10.21093/ijeltal.v7i2.1386
Muliyah, P., Aminatun, D., Septian Nasution, S., Hastomo, T., Sri Wahyuni Sitepu, S., & Sufyan Tsauri Majenang, S. (2020). Exploring learners’ autonomy in online language-learning in STAI SUFYAN TSAURI MAJENANG. Getsempena English Education Journal (GEEJ), 7(2).
Mohammadi Zenouzagh, Z., Admiraal, W., & Saab, N. (2023). Learner autonomy, learner engagement and learner satisfaction in text-based and multimodal computer mediated writing environments. Education and Information Technologies, 28(11), 14283–14323. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-023-11615-w
Pratiwi, D. I., & Waluyo, B. (2023). Autonomous learning and the use of digital technologies in online English classrooms in higher education. Contemporary Educational Technology, 15(2). https://doi.org/10.30935/cedtech/13094
Ribahan, & Muslimin, A. I. (2025). Navigating digital learning: Autonomy among EFL students in Indonesia. Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology, 9(2), 1034–1048. https://doi.org/10.55214/25768484.v9i2.4644
Rusdi, L., Mardhiah, A., Muna, H., & Fitriani, S. (2024). Teacher’s role in facilitating EFL autonomous learning through digital assistance: a systematic review (Vol. 1, Issue 1). https://journal.ar-raniry.ac.id/ICELT
Sim, J. S. E., & Ismail, H. H. (2023). Using digital tools in teaching and learning english: delving into english language Teachers’ Perspectives. Creative Education, 14(10), 2021–2036. https://doi.org/10.4236/ce.2023.1410129
Taufiqulloh, T., Nindya, M. A., Sulistyawati, A. E., & Sumekto, D. R. (2025). Investigating Indonesian EFL students’ writing strategies: a framework for self-assessment. Language Testing in Asia, 15(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40468-025-00388-3
Toba, R., Noor, W. N., & Sanu, L. O. (2019). The current issues of Indonesian EFL students’ writing skills: ability, problem, and reason in writing comparison and contrast essay. Dinamika Ilmu, 57–73. https://doi.org/10.21093/di.v19i1.1506
Tran, T. Q., & Duong, T. M. (2020). EFL learners’ perceptions of factors influencing learner autonomy development. Kasetsart Journal of Social Sciences, 41(1), 194–199. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.kjss.2018.02.009
Uli Banjarnahor, R., Wahyuni Manurung, L., & Sidabutar, U. (2023). Website: https://j-innovative.org/index.php/Innovative The implementation of visual-picture sequences on the improve students’ writing ability in grade xi of sma negeri 1 baktiraja, humbang hasundutan. INNOVATIVE: Journal Of Social Science Research, 3, 1215–1125. https://j-innovative.org/index.php/Innovative
Xie, L., & Jiang, L. (2025). Promoting second language writing autonomy through digital multimodal composing. Journal of Second Language Writing, 69. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jslw.2025.101225
Zhang, T. (2024). Effects of self-regulation strategies on EFL learners’ language learning motivation, willingness to communication, self-efficacy, and creativity. BMC Psychology, 12(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40359-024-01567-2
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2025-12-22
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