Constructing an English Competence Development System for International Talents from the Perspective of Digital Learning Ecology

Authors

  • Qingling Li Hainan Vocational University of Science and Technology, Haikou, China Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70088/gtx97q63

Keywords:

digital learning, learning ecology, english competence, talent cultivation, language education, higher education

Abstract

With the rapid development of digital technologies and the acceleration of global economic integration, the cultivation of international talents has become a critical objective for higher education systems worldwide. In the specific context of the Hainan Free Trade Port, the demand for international professionals equipped with strong English competence and advanced intercultural communication abilities has increased significantly. However, traditional language education models often focus predominantly on classroom-based instruction, thereby failing to fully utilize modern digital technologies and expansive global learning environments. From the perspective of digital learning ecology, this paper explores the comprehensive construction of an English competence development system tailored for international talents. Drawing upon learning ecology theory, digital education research, and global competence frameworks, the study proposes a robust conceptual model that seamlessly integrates digital learning environments, educational institutions, technological platforms, and international communication practices. The proposed framework strongly emphasizes the dynamic interaction between learners, digital technologies, and social learning environments in shaping sustainable English competence development. Furthermore, the paper discusses the strategic construction of a digital learning ecosystem that supports the cultivation of English proficiency through targeted curriculum reform, technology-enhanced learning environments, international collaboration platforms, and deep industry-education integration. Ultimately, this study contributes to theoretical discussions on language education in the digital era and provides actionable, practical implications for the development of innovative international talent training systems within the Hainan Free Trade Port and beyond.

References

M. Canale and M. Swain, "Theoretical base of communicative approaches," Applied Linguistics, vol. 45, 1980.

R. Kern, "Perspectives on technology in learning and teaching languages," TESOL Quarterly, vol. 40, no. 1, pp. 183-210, 2006.

D. Hymes, "On communicative competence," Sociolinguistics, pp. 269-293, 1972.

M. Warschauer, Technology and Social Inclusion: Rethinking the Digital Divide. MIT Press, 2004.

D. Crystal, English as a Global Language. Cambridge University Press, 2003.

M. Byram, Teaching and Assessing Intercultural Communicative Competence: Revisited. Multilingual Matters, 2020.

B. Spolsky, Language Policy. Cambridge University Press, 2004.

J. Knight, "Internationalization remodeled: Definition, approaches, and rationales," Journal of Studies in International Education, vol. 8, no. 1, pp. 5-31, 2004.

N. Selwyn, Education and Technology: Key Issues and Debates. Bloomsbury Publishing, 2021.

B. Barron, "Interest and self-sustained learning as catalysts of development: A learning ecology perspective," Human Development, vol. 49, no. 4, pp. 193-224, 2006.

C. Damşa, M. Nerland, and Z. E. Andreadakis, "An ecological perspective on learner‐constructed learning spaces," British Journal of Educational Technology, vol. 50, no. 5, pp. 2075-2089, 2019.

M. González-Sanmamed, I. Estévez, A. Souto-Seijo, and P. C. Muñoz-Carril, "Digital learning ecologies and professional development of university professors," Comunicar: Media Education Research Journal, vol. 28, no. 62, pp. 9-18, 2020.

M. Peters and M. Romero, "Lifelong learning ecologies in online higher education: Students' engagement in the continuum between formal and informal learning," British Journal of Educational Technology, vol. 50, no. 4, pp. 1729-1743, 2019.

N. Li, H. Huijser, Y. Xi, M. Limniou, X. Zhang, and M. Y. C. A. Kek, "Disrupting the disruption: A digital learning HeXie ecology model," Education Sciences, vol. 12, no. 2, p. 63, 2022.

X. Guo and J. S. Lee, "A systematic review of informal digital learning of English: An ecological systems theory perspective," System, vol. 117, p. 103097, 2023.

S. Stone and R. Lowney, "Learning ecology theory as a tool to support student digital competences in higher education," in 8th International Conference on Higher Education Advances (HEAd'22), Editorial Universitat Politècnica de València, May 2022, pp. 1051-1058.

P. Nedungadi, K. Devenport, R. Sutcliffe, and R. Raman, "Towards a digital learning ecology to address the grand challenge in adult literacy," Interactive Learning Environments, vol. 31, no. 1, pp. 383-396, 2023.

M. Sanmamed, "Learning ecologies in the digital era: challenges for higher education," Publicaciones, 2020.

Downloads

Published

10 April 2026

Issue

Section

Article

How to Cite

Li, Q. (2026). Constructing an English Competence Development System for International Talents from the Perspective of Digital Learning Ecology. Education Insights, 3(4), 52-61. https://doi.org/10.70088/gtx97q63