Malang (15/7/2025). The English Education Department (PBI) of the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP), Universitas Islam Malang (UNISMA), continues to strengthen its international academic visibility through impactful research and collaboration. A recent success comes from a joint publication authored by Dr. Sonny Elfiyanto, a lecturer in the department, and a sixth-semester undergraduate student, in collaboration with researchers from National Pingtung University, Taiwan.
The article, titled “Investigating Speaking Problems Faced by Indonesian EFL Students in an Online Setting”, has been published in the International Journal of Research on English Education (IJORER), a journal indexed by SINTA 2, which signifies its high quality and national accreditation.
🔗 Read the full article here: https://journal.ia-education.com/index.php/ijorer/article/view/785
This publication represents a significant milestone in PBI FKIP UNISMA’s internationalization efforts, particularly because it involved an undergraduate student directly in an international research project. It is part of the student exchange program activities that have been actively promoted by the department to develop global perspectives, intercultural academic skills, and research competencies among its students.
The research explores the challenges faced by Indonesian EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners in online speaking environments—a timely and relevant topic in the wake of the digital transformation in education post-pandemic. By involving both Indonesian and Taiwanese researchers, the study was able to compare perspectives and share innovative approaches to language learning in diverse educational settings.
Dr. Sonny Elfiyanto expressed that this achievement underscores the department’s commitment to bridging teaching and research, and providing real opportunities for students to grow through international exposure. “We aim to cultivate a research culture that not only supports our faculty but also empowers students to contribute meaningfully to global academic discourse,” he said.
This collaborative effort is a testament to UNISMA’s dedication to achieving its vision as a globally connected institution. The English Education Department, in particular, has made remarkable strides in building sustainable academic networks and encouraging students to engage beyond the classroom.
With this publication, PBI FKIP UNISMA continues to affirm its position as a dynamic academic hub that prioritizes quality education, international partnerships, and research innovation.