Building task-based virtual learning environments with SPeCTRUM: a case study from TFL Malaysian students using a thematic analysis

Purpose This study aims to identify the factors that influence the design of task-based virtual learning environments (TBVLEs) and to determine the optimal duration for TBVLE activities to enhance learners’ speaking and listening skills as well as their cultural competence. Design/methodology/approach To analyze the qualitative data from the survey and interview in this research, thematic analysis was used to identify the themes in the data. The responses from participants will be labeled as a theme, categorized and linked to the research question. The thematic analysis process involved the following steps: reading and rereading the data to familiarize oneself with it; creating preliminary codes; comparing overlap or inconsistencies of codes between studies iteratively; summarizing codes across studies into themes; and defining and refining themes. Findings The study found that Enhancing Visual Learning and Engagement, Facilitating Collaborative Learning and Critical Thinking and Gamifying Learning for Engagement and Motivation are three main factors with 32 subthemes to improve TFL students’ language learning experience. Research limitations/implications As this study only looks at a limited sample of replies, it may not include all aspects of language learning. This restriction may present chances for additional research in the future to close the remaining gaps. Practical implications This research result can act as a manual for developing the design of the task cycle including pretask, main task and posttask integrated with three main themes. The design can be implemented to other Moodle learning systems as well. It focuses on real-world tasks, making learning more meaningful and applicable for students in their daily lives. Originality/value To improve the usage of the platform, this research aims to design an effective teaching module that can be used on the platform to enhance students’ learning experiences by focusing on teaching Thai as a Foreign Language (TFL) with an interactive task designed on SPeCTRUM platform.