Strengthening English Competence For Global Citizenship

A Qualitative Study of Collaborative Learning Practices in Junior High School

Abstract

This study aims to explore how collaborative learning practices can strengthen English competence among junior high school students and support their empowerment as future global citizens. The research is motivated by the growing need for young learners to acquire English communication skills that are relevant to the demands of the digital era, ASEAN community integration, and the broader context of global citizenship. This qualitative study was conducted at Junior High School 22 Kendari, involving in-depth interviews with English teachers and students, classroom observations, and analysis of student learning documentation, including project outputs and reflective journals. The findings reveal that collaborative learning fosters an inclusive and engaging classroom atmosphere where students are motivated to actively use English in meaningful contexts. Group-based activities, discussions, and project tasks help students not only improve their speaking and writing skills, but also develop critical thinking, teamwork, and intercultural sensitivity. The study also identifies challenges, such as varying levels of student confidence and the need for more structured guidance in group tasks, but highlights the overall positive impact on student motivation and participation. The results suggest that contextualized, project-based English learning with a collaborative focus can serve as an effective strategy to promote youth empowerment and prepare students for participation in a globalized world. This study provides insights that may inform the development of English language teaching practices aimed at fostering global citizenship values in similar educational settings.   Keywords: English Competence; Global Citizenship; Collaborative Learning; Qualitative Study; Junior High School