Exploring Task-Based Approach in Learning Mandarin as a Foreign Language

Abstract

Task-based language teaching (TBLT) focuses on performing meaningful tasks in a target language. This quantitative study investigates how the TBLT approach can be applied to teaching of Mandarin to Malay students through real-life interactions with native Mandarin speakers. 31 participants were purposely selected from a public university in Malaysia to perform specific tasks such as shopping, dining and bargaining with native Mandarin speakers. The study used a survey adapted from Ellis (2009). The survey has 6 sections. Section A has items on demographic profile, section B has 7 items on natural language use, section C has 8 items on learner-centeredness, section D has 7 items on focus on form, section E has 7 items on communicative tasks and section F has 7 items on rejection of traditional approaches. The findings show that Malay students responded positively to the 5 features of TBLT suggested by Ellis (2009). They used language naturally, were learner-centered, sometimes form-focused and comfortable with real-life, non-traditional context. TBLT can improve learners' communicative competence and increase their knowledge of the target language. The findings also help teachers to improve teaching strategies and materials. Future research could focus on exploring more task-based activities, target groups and conducting experimental study.