Effects of the application of facilitation discussion technique for the elementary English speaking class

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the effects of the application of facilitation discussion technique for the elementary English speaking class. Facilitation discussion technique is a unique method that has a facilitator, who leads the discussion process. In this study, the instruction methods based on the facilitation technique were applied to 39 sixth grade students. The result showed a positive effect on their speaking proficiency. There were some meaningful improvements on their accuracy and fluency in speaking English. Also, some remarkable changes in students’ speaking pattern and affective aspects have been discovered. Based on the post-surveys, students became interested and confident in speaking English. Futhermore, students who showed passive attitudes in the beginning began to show active participation in the discussion through various idea production methods. The results of this study suggest that facilitation discussion technique could be an effective method in English speaking classes.