Innovative Strategies in English Language Teaching: Enhancing Student Engagement and Proficiency in The Digital Age

Abstract

This research examines the effectiveness of innovative strategies in English language learning, including technology-based approaches, collaborative projects, and communicative methods, along with their implementation constraints. Through a systematic literature review of 25 indexed articles (2017-2024), the results show that technology integration such as MALL, gamification, and AI increase student interaction by 60-78%, while collaborative projects can improve communicative skills by 75% and critical thinking by 40%. However, implementation faced significant challenges in the form of digital infrastructure gaps (65% of rural schools), teacher resistance (58%), administrative burden (72%), and mismatch of evaluation systems (63%). Thematic analysis revealed that the success of innovative strategies depends on three key factors: (1) TPACK-based teacher training, (2) equitable availability of resources, and (3) contextual adaptation of learning methods. The research recommends a holistic implementation model that combines pedagogical innovation with institutional policy support. The findings make an important contribution to the development of a framework for English language education in the digital age, emphasising the balance between the potential of technology and the need for humanised learning.