A study to compare online and face-to-face learning of English speaking skills among Vietnamese EFL learners

Abstract

The Covid-19 pandemic has affected all aspects of life, and education is no exception. It has shifted the educational system almost all around the world from traditional classrooms to online learning. When it comes to learning English speaking skills online, as with other subjects, it is unclear which learning mode is more useful, virtual or face-to-face. This research was therefore carried out to understand the affordances of each mode. It was conducted using mixed methods based on two sources of data: quantitative data gathered from an online survey of 119 Vietnamese students who were learning English speaking courses (introductory English, specialised English, and IELTS) online and qualitative data collected from semi-structured interviews with seven students. Some of our key findings include, first, a majority of participants responded positively to face-to-face learning for its advantage regarding interactions and scores. Participating in speaking activities in face-to-face classes makes learners more motivated and thereby improves their speaking skills. However, the fear of making mistakes when speaking directly has a significant influence on the psychology of learners. Second, regarding the ability to speak English fluently and confidently, most students rated these two forms of learning similarly. Third, students indicated that the limitation of student-to-student and student-to-teacher interaction when learning to speak online is one of the major barriers to learning to speak English. Finally, participants offered some methods to overcome those limitations, for example, students need to turn on their cameras when learning online and actively participate in class activities; meanwhile, teachers should offer more attractive activities and apply more effective teaching methods to engage students