Abstract
This study examines the effectiveness, challenges, and cost-efficiency of interactive teaching methods in improving student engagement and learning outcomes in resource-constrained ESL classrooms at two international schools in Zhangqiu, China. The goal is to find affordable teaching methods, design engaging activities, and evaluate their effect on student motivation, engagement, and language learning success. The research employs a combination of techniques, incorporating interviews and surveys with ESL teachers to gather both detailed and broad data. Participants were selected from two international schools based on their experience teaching ESL, using purposive sampling. The study addresses essential challenges that teachers face, such as a lack of digital tools, large class sizes, and insufficient teaching resources. It also highlights creative teaching strategies that encourage student participation without requiring extensive technology. To analyse the data, researchers used thematic coding to gain clear insights. The findings provide valuable guidance for policymakers, educators, and curriculum developers involved in English as a Second Language (ESL) education in low-resource settings. Additionally, the study emphasises the importance of teachers adapting, working together, and using low-cost digital tools to create meaningful and engaging language-learning experiences.