The Impact of Strategies-Based Instruction on EFL Speaking Competence

Abstract

So far, there have been relatively few studies investigating the benefits of providing second language learners with formal training in the applications of strategies for oral communication. This research aimed to (1) find out if the teaching of communication strategies contributed to the speaking performance of students in English Speaking class and (2) explore possible roles of strategies-based instruction in students’ spoken English communicative competence. In the collaborative study, data were collected through recorded observation, interview, diary, and test. Qualitative data were coded, tallied, and converted to percentage. Data from test were analyzed using the descriptive statistics. The research has shown that communication strategy training, either overt or covert, helped improve students’ communicative performance. Improvement was seen in term of students’ speech fluency in getting their meaning across. This was made possible with the wider insights into strategies in coping with shortcomings when communication took place. In addition, favorable learning practice led to the conducive classroom atmosphere, such as cheerfulness and learning enthusiasm.