Design and implementation of the SMART learning support services model in digital EFL classrooms at a vocational university

Jingwei Song; Jianzhu Liu; Li Li

doi:10.54475/jlt.2025.012

Authors

Jingwei Song Shenzhen Polytechnic University
Jianzhu Liu Shenzhen Polytechnic University
Li Li Shenzhen Polytechnic University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54475/jlt.2025.012

Keywords:

SMART model, learning support services, smart education, EFL education, higher vocational education

Abstract

With information technology deeply integrated into modern education, learning support services are increasingly recognised as crucial for facilitating digital transformation in English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) classrooms. These digitally-enabled services play a vital role in engaging students across online and in-class settings, providing smart learning environments, enabling interactive instructional activities, and fostering lifelong learning capacities. Drawing on the theories of learning support services and smart education, this study presents a SMART learning support services model, designed to address the specific teaching and learning needs of higher vocational EFL education in the digital era. The SMART model comprises five key components: ‘S’ for Space, ‘M’ for Methodology, ‘A’ for Assessment, ‘R’ for Resources, and ‘T’ for Teacher development. Taking a vocational university in China as an example, this model was implemented to support EFL teaching and learning in vocational higher education institution through the integration of digital learning spaces, constructivist blended teaching methodologies, technology-assisted formative and summative assessment approaches, digital learning resources, and enhanced teacher digital literacy and pedagogical competencies.

Author Biographies

Jingwei Song, Shenzhen Polytechnic University

Jingwei Song received her PhD degree in Education from the University of Glasgow. She is a lecturer in the School of Foreign Languages and Business, Shenzhen Polytechnic University. Her main research areas include (i) assessment for learning, and (ii) English language learning and teaching.
Email: jingweisong@szpu.edu.cn
Jianzhu Liu, Shenzhen Polytechnic University

Jianzhu Liu (Corresponding Author) received his PhD degree in Translation from the Guangdong University of Foreign Studies. He is a professor and the Deputy Dean of the School of Foreign Languages and Business, Shenzhen Polytechnic University. His main research interests include smart education and English language teaching.
Email: liujianzhu2002@szpu.edu.cn
Li Li, Shenzhen Polytechnic University

Li Li received her PhD degree in Translation from the Chinese University of Hong Kong. She is a lecturer and the General English Department Director of the School of Foreign Languages and Business, Shenzhen Polytechnic University. Her research interests include English language education and translation studies.
Email: lilicuhk@szpu.edu.cn

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