Speaking strategies for improving conversation skills of students of English Language at Universidad del Valle

Abstract

The objective of language learners should extend beyond mere comprehension to encompass effective communication in the target language. However, in Colombia, many English learners primarily focus on mastering grammar, relegating spoken proficiency to a secondary priority. This phenomenon is compounded by a prevailing perception among English educators that speaking skills are ancillary to the core curriculum. While English education in Colombian high schools often centers on passing standardized exams such as the Prueba Saber, university students recognize the necessity of English proficiency for both professional advancement and navigating a globalized society. At Universidad del Valle, students from diverse educational backgrounds, with varying levels of English proficiency, enroll in courses aimed at developing both general and academic language skills. Despite the emphasis on communicative competence in these courses, questions persist regarding the alignment of instructional activities with this pedagogical framework. Consequently, it becomes imperative to assess the efficacy of specific teaching methodologies in enhancing students' speaking abilities. This action research investigates the impact of implementing classroom activities such as role plays, short speeches, and interactive exercises aligned with the academic program's objectives. By focusing on these specific activities, this research aims to explore how their integration into the curriculum can enhance student engagement, learning outcomes, and overall academic performance. The study seeks to fill a gap in existing literature by providing empirical evidence on the effectiveness of these pedagogical strategies in achieving the desired educational goals of the program. By observing the effects on students' speaking proficiency, this study seeks to identify strategies that effectively foster linguistic fluency and communicative competence. Through rigorous analysis and evaluation, it aims to provide valuable insights into the optimization of language learning practices, particularly concerning the development of speaking skills in English language education contexts.