Analysis of the Implementation of Learning Applications Using Digital Smartboards to Introduce English Vocabulary to Young Children

Abstract

Introducing English vocabulary to young children still presents various challenges, particularly in attracting children's attention, encouraging their engagement, and developing their understanding of vocabulary meanings. Therefore, interactive learning media that are appropriate for the characteristics of young children are needed. One learning medium that can be utilized is a digital smartboard, which enables the presentation of learning materials through visual, audio, and interactive activities. This study aims to describe the implementation of digital smartboards in introducing English vocabulary to young children, including the learning process, students' responses, and the supporting and inhibiting factors. This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach. The research participants consisted of 3 teachers, 3 school principals, and 40 students from 3 early childhood education institutions. Data were collected through observations, interviews, and documentation and subsequently analyzed using Miles and Huberman's model, which includes data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that teachers utilized digital smartboards to introduce vocabulary through images, audio, question-and-answer sessions, vocabulary pronunciation activities, and digital games. The use of these learning media received positive responses, as students demonstrated enthusiasm, actively participated in learning activities, and were able to pronounce and understand the meanings of the vocabulary introduced. Supporting factors included the availability of school facilities and teacher training. Meanwhile, inhibiting factors included technical difficulties, teachers' limited ability to use technology, and the limited availability of English learning applications appropriate for the characteristics of young children. Thus, the implementation of digital smartboards can support the introduction of English vocabulary to young children through engaging and interactive activities, although several challenges still need to be addressed in practice.