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.

This document is available in the relevant AKU library

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