Investigating the accuracy and applicability of authentic materials for Generation Alpha English language learners

De Brito, Kritikaa Joyce (2025) Investigating the accuracy and applicability of authentic materials for Generation Alpha English language learners. Final Year Project, UTAR.

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Abstract

The integration of authentic materials in English language classrooms has gained attention as a strategy to improve learner engagement and language acquisition. However, limited research has examined their applicability and accuracy for Generation Alpha learners, particularly in the Malaysian context. Many have ventured the characteristics of the generation but lack evidence that focus on educational application and its learnability towards specific didactic materials. Data were collected from a group of students who fall under the Generation Alpha cohort (e.g., born between 2010 and 2025). We address the issue in three ways. First, we investigate the effectiveness of utilising authentic materials with the focus group. We also look at how the focus group respond to authentic materials before drawing conclusions. Second, we identify the learning strategies most preferred by Generation Alpha learners based on their responses. Finally, we determine how the outcomes of integrating authentic materials in English language learning can assist teachers in material selection. Students’ responses were analysed to study recurring themes related to motivation, learning outcomes, and classroom engagement. We discuss how authentic materials increase learners’ enthusiasm, confidence, and participation. Consequently, catering to learners’ preference for interactive, real-world activities, authentic materials can effectively support English learning. Practically, teachers are urged to select materials that fulfil learners’ interests and needs.

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