The Role of Digital Technology in Enhancing EnglishLiterature Learning in ESL/EFL Contexts

Abstract

Technology has transformed the way English literature is taught, making it more engaging, interactive, inclusive, and accessible for students from diverse backgrounds. Student understanding and the development of critical thinking skills are supported by digital gadgets, including multimedia, VR, and AR, as well as AI and digital platforms of various kinds. However, there are several constraints to the use of this technology, including a lack of teacher training, inequality in infrastructure, slow internet speeds, and restricted digital access, among others. The following research is based on the results of a Systematic Literature Review, which was carried out using publications from 2019 – 2024, primarily in scholarly journals, books, and conference proceedings. The research concludes that the technology encourages students to better understand, be more motivated, and become more interested in literary learning. In addition, findings demonstrated the necessity of methods that will help eliminate the digital gap and promote diversity. Moreover, lawmakers and educators should create more adaptable and flexible technological curricula that involve thorough professional training for teachers. Hence, it is believed that technology integration in learning English literature will provide equitable and sustainable access to education, apart from improving the quality of the learning.