Enhancing Inquiry-Based Language Learning With Educational Digital Library

Abstract

As the amount of information available in online digital libraries increases exponentially, questions arise concerning the most productive way to use that information to advance learning. This study investigated the value of an organized educational digital library in supporting and improving EFL students’ inquiry learning process. Ninety-eight participants in two groups were compared in their learning performance. One approach used traditional open access to information while the other used an online digital library to accessing information during their inquiry-based information search process. A One-Way ANCOVA and an Independent-Samples t-test were used to examine the two groups on their English reading comprehension and learning attitudes. Results indicated students who used structured search strategies with digital libraries had higher learning performance in English reading comprehension. Digital libraries can also increase the quality of learning process and enhance the students' learning with more positive attitude.