A Case Study on the Use of Digital Applications in Business Mandarin Communication: Challenges and Strategies Among UiTM Kelantan Students

The integration of digital applications into language learning has become increasingly important in higher education, particularly in foreign language courses such as Business Mandarin Communication. Digital technologies provide students with flexible access to learning resources, facilitate communication, and encourage interactive learning experiences. This study aimed to examine the use of digital applications in Business Mandarin Communication learning among undergraduate students at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Kelantan. Specifically, the study investigated the level of digital application usage, the challenges encountered by students, and the strategies employed to overcome these challenges. A quantitative survey design was adopted involving 51 undergraduate students enrolled in the Business Mandarin Communication course during the October–February 2026 semester. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that was reviewed for content validity and demonstrated acceptable internal consistency. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. The findings revealed that students reported a high level of digital application usage, while the challenges encountered were at a moderate level. The strategies adopted to overcome these challenges were also reported at a high level, indicating that students actively employed self-directed and collaborative learning approaches, such as consulting lecturers, discussing with peers, and using multiple digital applications. Overall, the findings suggest that digital applications play a significant role in enhancing Business Mandarin Communication learning and that appropriate learning strategies enable students to adapt effectively to challenges encountered in technology-enhanced learning environments. The study provides valuable implications for educators and higher education institutions in strengthening digital language learning practices and supporting students' learning experiences.

Digital Applications, Business Mandarin Communication, Mandarin Language Learning, Learning Challenges, Learning Strategies

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