Indah Werdiningsih, Kardi Nurhadi, Utami Widiati, Siti Muniroh
Academic literacy has evolved significantly over the past two decades, expanding beyond basic reading and writing skills to include a broad range of competencies essential for successful modern education. These competencies-skilled communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and digital literacy-are crucial for preparing students to navigate the complexities of an interconnected world. However, the integration of these competencies into English as a foreign language (EFL) teaching in contemporary learning environments remains under-explored. We used an explanatory case study design to investigate the integration of academic literacy into an EFL course at a private university in East Java, Indonesia. Data collection focused on course lesson plans and student worksheets, examining five key aspects: collaboration, skilled communication, knowledge construction, real-world problem-solving, and ICT-based learning. The findings revealed that academic literacy was effectively integrated throughout the course. Students engaged in activities that developed their communication skills, critical thinking abilities, and ability to apply knowledge in interdisciplinary and real-world contexts. The use of digital tools was particularly significant, enhancing students’ digital literacy and preparing them for future academic and professional challenges. This study underscores the importance of embedding academic literacy in contemporary EFL learning, particularly in the context of digital literacy. The successful integration of these competencies will help students develop the skills essential for academic success and real-world application, aligning with broader educational objectives. These insights offer valuable guidance for educators and policymakers seeking to enhance the effectiveness of EFL instruction by incorporating key literacy skills, particularly in contexts requiring the application of digital tools and interdisciplinary knowledge. © 2025, Western Australian Institute for Educational Research Inc.. All rights reserved.
English Department, Universitas Muhammadiyah Jember, Indonesia; Department of English at the Faculty of Education, Universitas Negeri Malang and Universitas Wiralodra, Indonesia; Department of English, Faculty of Letters, Universitas Negeri Malang, Indonesia; Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Malaysia; Department of English Language Education, Faculty of Letters, Universitas Negeri Malang (UM), Indonesia
