Exploring Learner Needs in ELT: A Multimodal 3H Perspective on Sustainability-Oriented Learning

Nuzuliatin Nisa   Utami; Sary   Silvhiany; Rita   Inderawati

doi:10.31849/321ptr16

Authors

Nuzuliatin Nisa Utami Universitas Sriwijaya, Palembang, Indonesia. https://orcid.org/0009-0005-1633-6902
Sary Silvhiany Universitas Sriwijaya, Palembang, Indonesia. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1924-2929
Rita Inderawati Universitas Sriwijaya, Palembang, Indonesia. https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5982-1071

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31849/321ptr16

Keywords:

Sustainability-oriented ELT, English as a Foreign Language, Needs Analysis, 3H Learner, Profiling Eco-ELT

Abstract

Sustainability topics are increasingly integrated into English language teaching due to their potential to support both language learning and environmental awareness. Effective material design, however, requires a clear understanding of learners’ needs, which remains limited, especially when considering cognitive, affective, and behavioural aspects together. This study aims to address this gap by profiling junior high school learners using the Head, Heart, and Hands (3H) framework to guide sustainability-oriented material design. A mixed-methods approach was applied within a needs analysis framework. Quantitative data were collected through surveys involving 114 students, while qualitative data were obtained from an interview with an English teacher. Survey data were analysed using frequencies and percentages, supported by Present Situation Analysis, Deficiency Analysis, and Target Needs Analysis, while interview data were examined thematically. Findings show that students respond positively to sustainability topics and prefer multimodal resources such as videos, games, quizzes, and infographics. Despite this, they face challenges in vocabulary and grammar and depend on teacher explanation. The 3H mapping indicates the need for accessible content, emotionally engaging materials, and structured action-based tasks. The study highlights the importance of integrated multimodal design to support language development and sustainability awareness.

Author Biographies

Nuzuliatin Nisa Utami, Universitas Sriwijaya, Palembang, Indonesia.

Nuzuliatin Nisa Utami is a researcher in the English Education Study Program at the Graduate School of Universitas Sriwijaya, Palembang, Indonesia. Her interest area are in English Language Teaching (ELT), educational materials development, sustainability education, and technology-enhanced learning. Her scholarly work reflects a strong commitment to improving English learning practices through innovative, meaningful, and context-responsive approaches. She is particularly motivated to contribute to the development of engaging and sustainable learning materials that support students’ language growth and awareness of real-world issues.
Sary Silvhiany, Universitas Sriwijaya, Palembang, Indonesia.

Dr. Sary Silvhiany is an assistant professor at English Education, Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Sriwijaya University. She also currently serves as the coordinator of the Language Education Master’s program. She earned her PhD from the department of Literacy, Culture, and Language Education at Indiana University Bloomington and her master’s degree from the University of Arizona, Tucson. Her research focuses on critical literacy, translingual literacies, and critical pedagogies in teachers’ education and professional development.
Rita Inderawati, Universitas Sriwijaya, Palembang, Indonesia.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Rita Inderawati, M.Pd. is a lecturer and Vice Dean for Academic Affairs at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP), Universitas Sriwijaya, Indonesia. She teaches in both undergraduate and graduate programs in English Education and has made significant contributions to the advancement of English language education. Her research interests include literature in English Language Teaching (ELT), academic writing, literacy, climate change in language education, and textbook development. She has also co-authored several literary books, including Sastra Horor, Sastra Rempah, and Sastra Maritim. Through her academic work, publications, and active participation as a speaker at national and international conferences in Indonesia, Malaysia, and other countries, she continues to inspire innovation, critical literacy, and interdisciplinary engagement in English education.

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