Student’s perception of using grammarly to enhance the accuracy in writing descriptive text at SMPN 5 Simpang Empat

Abstract

This study investigates how the use of Grammarly, a digital writing assistant, can help 8th-grade students at SMPN 5 Simpang Empat, improve their comprehension and accuracy in writing descriptive texts. The research also aims to address challenges in teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in a rural school setting. This qualitative study was conducted during the 2024/2025 academic year at SMPN 5 Simpang Empat, aiming to investigate the use of Grammarly in enhancing 8th-grade students' understanding and writing of descriptive texts. Data was collected from a purposive sample of 30 eighth-grade students through semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and closed-ended questionnaires (Likert scale) distributed via Google Forms over sixteen days. Data analysis involved thematic analysis for interview transcripts, descriptive analysis for classroom observations, and calculating percentages for questionnaire responses (P=F/N×100%). A cross-analysis of interviews and observations, along with triangulation, was used to ensure comprehensive and reliable findings. In-depth interviews and questionnaires reveal that eighth-grade students at SMPN 5 Simpang Empat hold a highly positive perception of using Grammarly to enhance the accuracy of their descriptive writing; despite challenges like stylistic mismatches and understanding complex explanations, Grammarly's speed, accessibility, and instant feedback significantly boost their confidence, grammatical awareness, and writing performance.