Exploring peer interaction activities in enhancing EFL speaking skills: A case study at FPT University

Abstract

English has become the most popular language in the world, but English teaching has not met the current demands of English in international communication. English speaking skills are reported to be neglected in some teaching contexts. In EFL contexts, how to improve students’ speaking competence and confidence tends to be a crucial concern among educators. Peer interaction activities are believed to provide students not only experiences but also opportunities for language learning. Yet, these opportunities have often been unrecognised and undervalued. This study investigated how peer interaction activities improved students’ English speaking skills. Mixed methods were used together with a student and a teacher survey. The study found out that there was a high frequency of use and integration of peer interaction activities in English lessons. Challenges were also revealed, and recommendations were made to both teachers and students for teaching and learning and new directions for future research.