A systematic literature review of factors influencing English learning among Chinese undergraduates: An ecological systems theory

Abstract

With the increasing significance of English proficiency in academic and professional fields, educators are looking for innovative language learning methods in the English learning ecosystem and trying to incorporate ecosystem theory into English learning in higher education. This paper aims to identify and analyze the various ecological elements that affect the English learning outcomes of Chinese university students by synthesizing existing research. This review adheres to the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Articles from 2003 to 2023 were retrieved from Google Scholar and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI). A total of 20 relevant articles were extracted and analyzed to explore the interactions between micro, meso, exo, and macro-level factors influencing the English learning abilities of Chinese university students. Through the in-depth analysis of the 20 selected articles, the study has comprehensively discussed the influencing factors of English learning abilities among Chinese university students. Based on the research findings, the study concludes with insights for educators and offers recommendations for further research on enhancing the English learning abilities of Chinese university students under the guidance of ecosystem theory. The insights provided can help educators design more effective English teaching strategies. The recommendations for further research can guide future studies to better improve the English learning environment and outcomes for Chinese university students in the context of ecosystem theory.