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Exploring EFL students' digital well-being through scenario-based assessment: A vignette study in Vietnamese universities

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning | 2026

Paper Details

Authors: Hoang N.H.

DOI: 10.58459/rptel.2026.21024

Journal: Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Year: 2026

Publisher: Asia-Pacific Society for Computers in Education

Document Type: Article

Open Access: All Open Access; Gold Open Access

Cited by: 0

Abstract

This mixed-methods study investigates Vietnamese EFL university students' digital well-being and emotion regulation in technology-mediated learning environments. Through quantitative surveys (N=342) and qualitative interviews (n=40), the research examined students' emotional experiences across different educational technology scenarios and their regulation strategies for maintaining digital well-being. Findings revealed complex patterns of co-existing anxiety and enjoyment, with significant variations across synchronous and asynchronous activities. Technical proficiency emerged as a key predictor of positive emotional experiences, while gender differences indicated higher anxiety levels among female students. The study identified three main categories of emotion regulation strategies: proactive preparation, real-time adjustment, and post-session reflection, with strategy effectiveness significantly predicting digital well-being outcomes. Results demonstrate the critical role of institutional support systems and peer networks in successful emotion regulation. This research contributes to digital well-being theory by illuminating the intricate relationship between emotional experiences, technical competence, and cultural factors in online language learning contexts. © The Author(s). 2025.

Keywords

Digital well-being; EFL students; Scenario-based assessment; Vietnamese universities; Vignette study