Evaluation of the effectiveness of an EFL teaching and learning English language programme at Djibouti University : from students` perspectives

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of the English Language Programme at Djibouti University from the perceptive of students. The study utilised the CIPP (context, input, process, and product), evaluation model developed by Stufflebeam (1971, 2003), which utilised 362 undergraduate students enrolled at the Djibouti University in the 2016-2017 academic year. In addition, 3 graduate students were interviewed in the programme and participated in the study. A mixed method approach employing the convergent parallel design method was used. The data were collected through a self-reported student questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. The data related to the quantitative survey were analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics, while the qualitative data through content and thematic analysis. Multivariate Analysis of Variances (MANOVA) with Wilk’s Lambda Trace test was to investigate the effect of demographic factors on the students’ perceptions of the effectiveness of English language programme in terms of its effectiveness, objectives, content, process, and product, teaching methods, and materials of the dimensions of the evaluation. The study found that the gender and the education level of parents with MANOVA test analysis had no significant effect on the usefulness, objectives, content, process, product, methods, and materials. Meanwhile results of the year of study and the faculty of study had significant effects on the students’ perception towards effectiveness of the programme, objectives, content, process, and product of the programme. Finally, the overall findings of the study indicated that students have moderate positive opinions about the different components of the programme. It also revealed that some improvements in the content, teaching methods and materials dimensions of the programme were required to make the programme more effective.