Assessing The Role of EFL Learning Environment in Improving Students’ Academic Performance

Abstract

This study concentrates on the role of the EFL learning environment in improving students’ academic performance. The objective is to identify students’ perceptions of effective learning environments and the specific elements that create one. The purposes are accomplished by answering these questions: Firstly, what are the perceptions of students about the impact of the learning environment on their academic performance? Secondly, what are the factors that impact creating a better learning environment? The mixed methods used in the study facilitated to finding of a wider opinion and its dependent effects over time on students’ academic performance. In light of this, the researcher collected data through designing a questionnaire and conducting in-class observations in Salahaddin University-Erbil, Department of English, College of Basic Education, 2023–2024. The primary data consisted of 44 student respondents, through which twenty-one items were created. Additionally, five teachers were observed in the classroom. Based on the outcomes and results, the study concluded that the dimensions of the learning environment are strictly interrelated in improving students’ academic performance. Accordingly, a learning environment is regarded as supportive relationships between instructors and students, available resources, operative teaching methods, and a confident atmosphere, which can considerably develop students' participation and motivation.