Date of Defense

10-4-2025 1:00 PM

Location

H1-0055

Document Type

Thesis Defense

Degree Name

Master of Education (Curriculum and Instruction)

College

CEDU

Department

Curriculum and Methods of Instruction

First Advisor

Dr. Mona Aljanahi

Keywords

English teaching, supplementary materials, digital tools, UAE education, pedagogical materials, authentic materials, adaptation, qualitative research.

Abstract

This study explores the use of supplementary materials in English classrooms in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), exploring their types, how teachers integrate them, and the challenges they encounter when implementing them in their English language classrooms. Using materials in language teaching and learning is important and widely recognized. Understanding these materials and their use is crucial as educational institutions evolve in teaching English, particularly in multicultural-speaking countries like the UAE.
The study employed a qualitative case study approach, collecting data through triangulation, which comprised classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, and artifacts. Thematic analysis revealed patterns in the types of supplementary materials used, the teaching practices employed, and teachers' methods to integrate them effectively. The findings indicated that digital tools, such as PowerPoint, YouTube videos, and interactive platforms, were the most commonly used supplementary materials, alongside printed worksheets. In contrast, authentic materials were used sparingly. As for results pertaining to challenges, teachers encountered time constraints, concerns about cultural appropriateness, and technical issues in integrating these materials.
This study improves our understanding of English teaching practices in the UAE by offering insights into how educators address pedagogical challenges and make the most of available materials. The study highlights the importance of institutional support for developing materials and training teachers to enhance the effectiveness of integrating supplementary materials in English classrooms across the UAE.

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Apr 10th, 1:00 PM

AN EXPLORATION OF THE USE OF SUPPLEMENTARY MATERIALS BY ENGLISH TEACHERS IN THE UAE

H1-0055

This study explores the use of supplementary materials in English classrooms in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), exploring their types, how teachers integrate them, and the challenges they encounter when implementing them in their English language classrooms. Using materials in language teaching and learning is important and widely recognized. Understanding these materials and their use is crucial as educational institutions evolve in teaching English, particularly in multicultural-speaking countries like the UAE.
The study employed a qualitative case study approach, collecting data through triangulation, which comprised classroom observations, semi-structured interviews, and artifacts. Thematic analysis revealed patterns in the types of supplementary materials used, the teaching practices employed, and teachers' methods to integrate them effectively. The findings indicated that digital tools, such as PowerPoint, YouTube videos, and interactive platforms, were the most commonly used supplementary materials, alongside printed worksheets. In contrast, authentic materials were used sparingly. As for results pertaining to challenges, teachers encountered time constraints, concerns about cultural appropriateness, and technical issues in integrating these materials.
This study improves our understanding of English teaching practices in the UAE by offering insights into how educators address pedagogical challenges and make the most of available materials. The study highlights the importance of institutional support for developing materials and training teachers to enhance the effectiveness of integrating supplementary materials in English classrooms across the UAE.