Enhancing Chinese Language Learning Through Google Sites by Developing Effective and Engaging Online Lessons for Secondary School Students

Abstract

Abstract

This research aimed to design, implement, and evaluate an online Chinese language instructional module for upper secondary students in Thailand using Google Sites. The study employed a research and development (R&D) methodology and was guided by four primary objectives: (1) to develop online lessons aligned with the national core curriculum, (2) to assess instructional effectiveness using the 80/80 criterion, (3) to measure students&rsquo; proficiency gains through pre- and post-tests, and (4) to evaluate learners&rsquo; satisfaction with the learning experience. The instructional content comprised 11 thematic units focused on real-life communication, supported by multimedia and interactive elements such as audio models, video clips, quizzes, and pronunciation tools. The module was validated by experts for content accuracy and instructional quality. A sample of 363 upper secondary school students was selected using stratified random sampling. Data was collected using proficiency tests and a satisfaction questionnaire. The findings demonstrated that the online lessons met the 80/80 effectiveness standard (E1 = 88.89%, E2 = 89.10%). Statistical analysis using paired sample t-tests revealed significant improvement in all four language skills, listening, speaking, reading, and writing (p < .001). Moreover, students reported a very high level of satisfaction (overall = 4.61), particularly in the areas of assessment, content design, and media integration. The results affirm the pedagogical value of Google Sites as an effective platform for delivering structured, engaging, and accessible online language instruction. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting digital language learning in secondary education and highlights the potential for scalable and cost-effective solutions in diverse learning environments.