Developing speaking skills in EFL young learners through visual and audiovisual materials

Abstract

The acquisition of speaking skills in a foreign language is considered a challenge, especially for young learners. Research suggests that Affective Factors (AF), such as anxiety and motivation, may contribute to the blockade of the learning process and can hinder the participation, attention, and interest of students in class. Therefore, search for better teaching materials, tools, and methodologies that enhance students’ motivation to learn is constant. As much of this line of research is developed outside of Latin America and focuses on teenagers or older, this study aimed to evaluate the effects of audio-visual materials on students’, ages 8-9, speaking skills and their engagement with the lessons in an Ecuadorian primary public school. To do so, this study used a mixed method approach to collect qualitative and quantitative data. Quantitative data was collected through a pre-test and pos-test and a motivational test questionnaire, and qualitative data was collected through the student’s feedback on the use of the proposed material via a focus group. The results show that audio-visual materials have a greater influence on grammar and vocabulary. In addition, evidenced low levels of anxiety and high intrinsic motivation had a positive influence on the acquisition of speaking skills.