cognitive aspects in an EFL (English as a Foreign Language) class

 

When measuring cognitive aspects in an EFL (English as a Foreign Language) class in a Taiwanese elementary school using eBooks as the learning medium, here are several key cognitive aspects that can be assessed:

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1. Vocabulary Acquisition

• What to measure: Number of new words learned, retention over time, and correct usage in context.

• Why it's relevant: eBooks often include glossaries, pictures, or interactive features that support vocabulary learning.

• Example assessment: Word matching, cloze tests, or digital flashcard quizzes.

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2. Reading Comprehension

• What to measure: Ability to understand main ideas, details, inference, and sequence of events in the text.

• Why it's relevant: eBooks can scaffold reading with audio, pictures, and interactive questions.

• Example assessment: Multiple-choice questions, story maps, or digital comprehension games.

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3. Working Memory

• What to measure: Ability to retain and manipulate information from the text, like following instructions or summarizing.

• Why it's relevant: Interactive eBooks can place cognitive load on students through multimedia, requiring strong working memory.

• Example assessment: Recall tasks, sequencing activities, or listening-then-respond tasks.

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4. Attention and Focus

• What to measure: How well students stay engaged with the eBook, avoid distractions, and complete tasks.

• Why it's relevant: Multimedia in eBooks can either enhance focus or become a distraction depending on design.

• Example assessment: Observation checklists, on-task behavior logs, or eye-tracking (if tech is available).

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5. Metacognitive Awareness

• What to measure: Student's awareness of their learning process—e.g., using hints, checking understanding, or re-reading.

• Why it's relevant: eBooks often include features like highlighting or dictionaries that encourage self-regulation.

• Example assessment: Learning journals, self-reflection forms, or think-aloud protocols.

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6. Critical Thinking

• What to measure: Ability to compare ideas, form opinions, or solve problems based on eBook content.

• Why it's relevant: Some eBooks include decision-making paths or discussion prompts that engage critical thinking.

• Example assessment: Open-ended questions, class debates, or short written reflections.