Towards digital engagement – students’ perception towards academic writing conferencing and collaborative writing using Google Docs / Erda Wati Bakar

Academic writing is a complex process for learners for they are required to transfer their thoughts into writing not only by using correct language but by also formatting. When the world was struck by the Covid-19 pandemic, learning is migrated to online platforms. Instructors need to search for the best pedagogy to ensure the process of teaching and learning is not disrupted. Web 2.0 tools is perceived to be an ideal resource to assist instructors in teaching academic writing. Online writing tools like Google Docs are immediately integrated into the educational settings due to its vast values and potentials in assisting learners to learn within online environment. This paper presents a case study investigating higher education students’ perceptions of collaborative writing using Google Docs as well as to examine the manner online writing conference as a feedback tool can help to improve students’ writing performance. The data is analysed using SPSS Version 24 with 49 students participated in this case study. From the survey conducted, it is found that the learners reacted positively to the use of Google Docs not only to work collaboratively successfully but also the feedback they received in the Google Docs both from their peers and the instructor had helped them to improve their writing performance. This study implicated that Google Docs is a valuable resource as an alternative pedagogical tool that can facilitate learners’ writing skills and digital engagement which is imperative as part of the effort to equip them with the 21st century skills.