Needs Analysis for Developing SDGs-Based Digital Teaching Materials in the Productive Written Language Skills Course
Khairunnisa Br. Batubara, Yeni Erlita, Maya Oktora, Karunia Devi Frida, Zulfidar

Universitas Negeri Medan

Abstract

Integrating 21st-century skills and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into higher education is essential to equip students with global competencies, particularly in writing. This study investigates the needs of second-semester students enrolled in the Productive Written Language Skills (PWLS) course at the English Department of Universitas Negeri Medan, to develop SDG-based digital teaching materials. Using a descriptive quantitative approach, data were gathered through a structured Google Form questionnaire distributed to 35 students. The findings indicate that while students recognize the importance of writing argumentative texts and developing critical thinking, they struggle with idea development, coherence, and structure. A significant number of respondents also reported a lack of confidence in expressing opinions on real-world issues. Moreover, most expressed strong interest in learning materials integrating SDG topics, such as education, poverty, and climate change, especially in interactive and digital formats. Students preferred content that includes real examples, multimedia support, and clear writing models. These findings suggest an urgent need to redesign PWLS teaching materials to align with student preferences, digital learning trends, and global themes. The needs analysis provides practical insights for material developers and educators, enabling the creation of engaging, SDG-integrated digital resources that support critical writing skills and global awareness. This study contributes to the ongoing development of outcome-based education by emphasizing student-centered design in writing instruction.

Keywords: Needs Analysis- SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)- Digital Learning Materials- PWLS

Topic: Social Science, Linguistics, Foreign Language and Humanities