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Cited by 3Education and Critical Thinking DevelopmentEFL/ESL Teaching and LearningEnglish Language Learning and Teaching

The DOI matches its Crossref record; 31 of the 32 references it cites were found in a registry or an index.

Integrating Critical Thinking and Technology in Saudi EFL Classrooms: A Framework for Culturally Responsive Language Learning

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Omer Elsheikh Hago Elmahdi, Mohammed AbdAlgane, Fatima A. Hamid, Asjad Ahmed Saeed Balla, Intisar Zakariya Ahmed Ibrahim·2025·International Journal of English Language Studies
DOI 10.32996/ijels.2025.7.2.4
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Abstract

The integration of critical thinking (CT) and technology in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms has emerged as a vital pillar of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 educational reforms, which aims to foster innovation, global citizenship, and analytical competencies. However, systemic challenges—such as overcrowded classrooms, language proficiency disparities, and reliance on traditional rote-based assessments—hinder the effective implementation of CT-focused pedagogy. This study proposes a culturally responsive framework that combines CT development with innovative educational technologies to address these barriers. Utilizing tools such as artificial intelligence (AI), gamification, and multilingual scaffolding, the framework aligns CT activities with Saudi cultural norms and Vision 2030 goals. Employing a mixed-methods research design, the study investigates the perceptions, practices, and challenges of Saudi EFL educators through a 25-item Likert-scale questionnaire and semi-structured interviews with 25 participants. Findings reveal a strong consensus on the importance of CT for achieving Vision 2030’s objectives while identifying significant barriers, including limited teacher training, large class sizes, and the lack of culturally aligned EdTech tools. The study emphasizes the need for targeted professional development, policy alignment, and localized digital solutions to enhance CT integration. By addressing these systemic gaps, this framework provides actionable strategies to prepare a generation of critical thinkers who can navigate an evolving global landscape while preserving their cultural identity.

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Cites

Research works printed but not linked: 6

  1. Canagarajah, S. (2018). Translingual practice: Global Englishes and cosmopolitan relations (2nd ed.). Routledge.
  2. Chapelle, C. A., & Sauro, S. (Eds.). (2017). The handbook of technology and second language teaching and learning. Wiley-Blackwell.
  3. Delacruz, S. (2019). Building digital literacy bridges: Connecting cultures and promoting global citizenship through Nearpod. TechTrends, 63(3), 303-309.
  4. Elmahdi, O. E. H., AbdAlgane, M., & Othman, K. A. J. (2024). Promoting inclusion and motivation in EFL learning: Strategies for success. Teaching English Language, 18(1), 127-158. https://doi.org/10.22132/tel.2024.429625.1542 · DOI
  5. Sanga, M. W., & Brogdon, S. L. (2023). Tech tools for remote teaching: Analyzing the process of using viable technologies to facilitate emergency remote teaching in the COVID-19 pandemic era. Quarterly Review of Distance Education, 24(2), 63-76.
  6. Warschauer, M. (2020). Technology and critical literacy in higher education. Routledge.

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Metadata

Authors
Elmahdi, O. E. H., AbdAlgane, M., Hamid, F. A., Balla, A. A. S., & Ibrahim, I. Z. A.
Affiliations
  • Taibah University (SA)
  • Qassim University (SA)
ORCID
Venue
International Journal of English Language Studies
Publisher
Al-Kindi Center for Research and Development
Published
2025-06-14
Volume
7
Issue
2
Pages
34-52
ISSN
2707-7578 (ISSN-L)
DOI
10.32996/ijels.2025.7.2.4
OpenAlex
W4411301230
Cited by
3
References
32
Citations by year
2026: 2 · 2025: 1
FWCI
9.38
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Licence
Locations
International Journal of English Language Studies (publishedVersion, cc-by)
Topics
  • Social Sciences › Education › Education and Critical Thinking Development
  • Social Sciences › Arts and Humanities › Language and Linguistics › EFL/ESL Teaching and Learning
  • Social Sciences › Education › English Language Learning and Teaching
Keywords
critical thinking, educational technology, EFL classroom, culturally responsive teaching, Saudi Vision 2030, artificial intelligence in education, gamification, teacher perceptions, teacher professional development, large classes, Saudi Arabia

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