Pontianak, Desember 22nd , 2023 – The State Islamic Institute (IAIN) Pontianak and the University of Aberdeen have joined forces in a research endeavor, reaching the successful completion of the data collection phase. Led by James Burnett, a distinguished Ph.D. student from the University of Aberdeen with degrees in B.A., M.Sc., TESOL, the study owes its success to the support and permission granted by the Dean of the Faculty of Teacher Training and Tarbiyah Faculty (FTIK) at IAIN Pontianak, Prof. Dr. H. Hermansyah, M.Ag., and the head of the English Tadris Study Program, Sulaiman, M.Pd.
The title is “A study into the effectiveness of immersive virtual reality (iVR) and its impact on foreign language public speaking anxiety amongst English language learners studying at university in Indonesia,”. The research involves a two-week course with 12 participants, strategically divided into three groups. Each group will undergo varying degrees of presentation practice, including immersive VR sessions, aimed at assessing potential differences in outcomes related to foreign language speaking anxiety.
Sulaiman, M.Pd., the Chairman of English Tadris Study Program, emphasized the significance of this research for the development of English language teaching approaches in the Indonesian academic environment. “This research introduces a new dimension by leveraging Virtual Reality technology, and I believe its outcomes will provide valuable insights into understanding and addressing challenges in public speaking anxiety. Moreover, it has been a valuable experience for the 24 participating students,” he stated.
Nanik Shobikah, M.Pd., the Secretary of the English Tadris Study Program, underscored the importance of exploring new methods, particularly those related to technology, to create a supportive and effective learning environment for students. “Understanding the impact of Virtual Reality on speaking anxiety can open doors for further innovations in English language learning at IAIN Pontianak,” she added.
As the Research Coordinator, Militansina, M.Pd., expressed pride in the high dedication of the students involved in researching the impact of Virtual Reality on English language speaking anxiety at IAIN Pontianak. Over the 20-day research period, students demonstrated exceptional enthusiasm and interest in iVR technology. Militansina highlighted the participants’ progress in overcoming research challenges, understanding Virtual Reality concepts, and improving presentation and English language skills. She hopes this experience will serve as a foundation for students to evolve as competent and innovative English educators, contributing positively to the future of education.
In acknowledgment of the collaboration between IAIN Pontianak and the University of Aberdeen, Militansina presented a personal painting of the Digulis Monument, painted by herself, to James as a meaningful souvenir. This gesture responded to James’s specific request for a distinctive Pontianak painting, showcasing its uniqueness with a touch of professionalism in honoring the guest. The Digulis Monument, or the pointed bamboo monument, symbolizes eleven Sarekat Islam(Islamic Union) figures from West Kalimantan considered dangerous by the colonial government and were exiled to Boven Digul Island because of their resistance for the nation’s independence from colonial rule. The eleven political figures from West Kalimantan are: Achmad Marzuki, Achmad Su’ud bin Bilal Achmad, Gusti Djohan Idrus, Gusti Hamzah, Gusti Moehamad Situt Machmud, Gusti Soeloeng Lelanang, Jeranding Sari Sawang Amasundin. Subsequently, Haji Ris bin H. Aburahman, Moehammad Sohor, Moehammad Hambal, also known as Bung Tambal, and Moehammad SohordanYa’ Moehammad Sabran.In commemoration of their contributions, a monument consisting of eleven pointed bamboo poles was erected in 1968 and inaugurated by the Governor of West Kalimantan, H. Soedjiman (1977-1988), on Heroes’ Day, November 10, 1987.
As a meaningful gesture, Militansina marked the occasion by presenting her book on English language learning, incorporating Pontianak Malay cultural content, as a profound memento related to the inseparable connection between Malay culture and religious dimensions. This action aligns with IAIN Pontianak’s vision and mission, continually emphasized by the Rector, Prof. Dr. H. Syarif, S.Ag., MA., in making the institution a center for scholarly, Islamic, and Borneo cultural studies.”
During his visit, James was warmly welcomed by students with joy and enthusiasm. Students expressed their appreciation by presenting unique Pontianak souvenirs to James. In their personal creations, Nabil, Ratu, Faqihatun, and Rico depicted the beauty of local culture and sketched James’s face. Virda, with her kindness, offered traditional Pontianak food as part of the cultural treat. Engla, skilled in knitting, contributed knitted keychain ornaments as a creative gesture. James’s visit not only left academic imprints but also cultivated close and enjoyable relationships between the guest lecturer and students, creating an unforgettable learning experience. The 24 students felt happy and inspired by the positive interactions with James. James appeared delighted with the mementos and gifts given by the English Language Teaching students.
As students presented their profiles, reasons for choosing the English Tadris study program, and discussed figures and theories related to English language teaching, James gave high praise. He stated that the students were not only highly fluent but also capable of delivering engaging explanations, using visually relevant images, and interacting effectively with the audience. James expressed confidence that English Language Teaching students have the potential to continue their studies at the University of Aberdeen. He hoped that this collaboration would not only provide valuable research experiences but also open new opportunities for the development of English language teaching methods and future collaborations.
The Ph.D. research visit by a student from the University of Aberdeen sparked enthusiasm and garnered high appreciation from the faculty and students in the English Tadris study program at IAIN Pontianak. The presence of this student researcher added value to the academic atmosphere, fostering a positive collaborative environment. The faculty and students warmly welcomed the visit, recognizing the significance of knowledge and experience exchange. In the spirit of openness to further collaboration, they expressed readiness to host visits from other researchers interested in conducting research in the English Language Teaching program at IAIN Pontianak. This eagerness reflects their dedication to facilitating intellectual exchange and advancing knowledge in the field of English language education.
Writer: Militansina, M.Pd.
