Enhancing ESL learners' oral communication through use of dicussion strategy: an action research study
Date of Award
2009
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Master of Education (MEd)
First Supervisor/Advisor
Dr. Jane Rarieya
Second Supervisor/Advisor
Zeenat Shariff
Third Supervisor/Advisor
Fauzia Shamim
Abstract
Students' oral communication in classroom settings where English is a second language facilitate their development in the use of the language, thereby increase their language store. This is important if they are to use the language meaningfully. However, teaching and learning processes in some english language classrooms in Dar es salaam, Tanzania, revealed inadequate opportunities for developing learners' oral communication.
This action research study, therefore, explored how discussion strategy can be used to data collection methods used were interviews, classroom observations, reflective conversations and documentary analysis.
Findings from the study suggest that discussion increase the quality ad quatity of oral iinteractions, facilitates learing of new words and creates a positive affective climate in the classroom. However, in order to realize these benefits, the teacher's role is vital i setting clear tasks, providing opportuities for speaking and ensuring a safe and encouraging classroom climate. In addition, teacher's wide knowledge base and skills in pedagogoy ease facilitation effective discussions.
Althrough learners' oral communication was enhanced, the prevalent language in use in the school; Kiswahili, still affected the amount of english spokenoutside the classroom.
Recommendations and implications for second laguage classroompractice, traditionally dominated by teacher talk,are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Okoth, Teresa Akinyi (2009). Enhancing ESL learners' oral communication through use of dicussion strategy: an action research study (Unpublished Masters Thesis). Dar es salaam: Aga Khan University