The Role of Technology in Teaching English to Young Learners: Perspectives from Private Schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina

This study investigates the role of technology in teaching English to young learners in private schools in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The research focuses on both the benefits and the challenges of using digital tools and language learning applications. A quantitative survey was conducted with 31 teachers and 180 students in Sarajevo, Tuzla, and Bihać. The findings show that digital tools and apps increase student motivation, make lessons more interactive, and support vocabulary development. However, several challenges were reported, including unstable internet connections, limited teacher training, and the risk of distraction when technology is not guided properly. The results also showed regional differences, with students in Tuzla showing more positive attitudes than those in Bihać, and small gender differences in perceptions of digital learning. The study concludes that technology has strong potential to enrich English language learning, but it should be used together with traditional methods. In conclusion, this study informs schools and policymakers that better facilities and professional development opportunities should be provided for teachers to maximize the positive impact of technology in the classroom. Keywords: technology in education, English language teaching, young learners, digital tools, Bosnia and Herzegovina