Meaningful Communication Research Articles

Task-based language teaching: enhancing language acquisition through meaningful communication. Principles and literature review

Task-based language teaching: enhancing language acquisition through meaningful communication. Principles and literature review

Language is not taught, it is caught: Embracing the communicative approach in the primary classroom

This paper explores the adoption of the Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) approach in primary classrooms, emphasizing that language acquisition is best achieved through meaningful communication rather than rote memorization. Drawing on Krashen's Input Hypothesis and Vygotsky's socio-cultural theory, the study highlights the importance of interaction, real-life application, and sociolinguistic competence in developing communicative skills. This paper further analyzes key strategies such as task-based learning, multilingual integration, and cultural awareness, demonstrating their effectiveness in enhancing linguistic competence and critical thinking in young learners. Finally, it addresses the challenges of implementing CLT in under-resourced classrooms and proposes solutions through teacher training and curriculum reform.

SÍNDROME METABÓLICA: VIVÊNCIAS EM RELAÇÃO AO CUIDADO COM A SAÚDE

ABSTRACT Objective: to interpret the experiences of people with metabolic syndrome in relation to healthcare. Method: this is qualitative research using Grounded Theory as a method and Symbolic Interactionism as a framework for analysis. It was carried out at a Basic Health Unit in the city of Marília/SP, Brazil, with 24 interviews in three sample groups (patients, family members and healthcare professionals), from February 9, 2022 to January 16, 2023. Results: a total of 734 codes were identified and grouped into categories and subcategories, with the central phenomenon being “(Not) Taking Care of Health”, which is characterized as a dualistic process that encompasses both neglect and care. Aspects relating to neglecting health include the categories: “Considering not having health problems”; “Having difficulties understanding and resisting following care”; and “Lack of adherence to treatment”. In the aspect of taking care of the health, there are the categories: “Understanding that they have metabolic syndrome”; “Receiving guidance”; and “Counting on support”. Conclusion: the experience of people with metabolic syndrome permeates the biological, psychological, social and spiritual spheres, as they deal with their health problems according to the social interaction maintained with themselves and other people. Therefore, meaningful communication and bonding with healthcare team are the main tools for adherence to treatment.

All Pandemics are Local: The Importance of a Culture-Centered Approach to Risk and Crisis Communication for Laboratory Research on Zoonotic Diseases.

Continuing laboratory research into zoonotic diseases is necessary for public health preparedness. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has elevated existing concerns about the risks BSL-4 research facilities can pose to the surrounding community. This study places such concerns in the context of previous research regarding the construction of biosafety labs, as well as policy discussions related to other scientific controversies like gain of function research. Building on this prior knowledge as well as established theories in the field of communication, we propose using a Culture-Centered Approach paired with a Communication Complex approach to facilitate more meaningful and effective communication between researchers and community members, particularly those who tend to be marginalized in such conversations. The commentary concludes by outlining a risk assessment process using the CCA-Communication Complex Approach.

Establishment of a Chinese Paremiological Minimum Based on International English Media

Paremiological Minimum (PM) is defined as a set of proverbs that all members of a particular speech community know or an average adult is expected to know (Ďurčo, 2015b). Acquiring such frequently used proverbs will lead to meaningful and effective communication by native speakers or foreign speakers (Mieder, 1993). The study of creating PM has been conducted in many countries globally for at least 50 years, but no researcher has engaged in PM for Chinese language. Classic Chinese proverbs are discourse symbols that embody Chinese values and represent traditional Chinese culture, and are frequently quoted by dignitaries from various countries and overseas media. This study proposes to build a Chinese Paremiological Minimum (CPM) by investigating Chinese proverbs in FACTIVA (2012-2021), from the media of English-language speaking communities with a view to identity the frequently quoted Chinese proverbs. Meantime, four selection criteria are placed emphases on the process of creating CPM: Currency, Internationality, Frequency and Authenticity, namely CIFA frame, different from the previous research approaches which merely focused on the frequency or familiarity for the PM creation. The establishment of CPM is bond to promote a further insight into the Chinese mind, language and culture, resulting in long-term benefits to speakers of other languages and English language learning and teaching in China, for the mastery of PM is an effective way to enhance language proficiency and understanding in intercultural communication.

Online Physical Education: Insights from the COVID-19 Pandemic Experiences

The study aimed to explore the online physical education (OLPE) program of a university in Metro Manila during the COVID-19 pandemic. The researcher used a qualitative- case study research design. It focused on providing an in-depth description of the experiences of students and teachers in OLPE courses during the pandemic and analyzing the experiences concerning the achievement of P.E. and physical literacy goals. Interviews with physical education teachers and students were conducted. It also used information from online synchronous P.E. class observations and documents provided by teachers (course packs and syllabi). Results showed that the different components of the learning environment and class design were affected by the sudden shift to online mode and the consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic effects. The OLPE fell short of achieving the NASPE PE Objectives 1 and 4, the development of sport motor skills and the student's sense of responsible personal and social behavior. On the other hand, the OLPE courses achieved NASPE P.E. objectives 2, 3, and 5. These were the student's fitness and health (physical and mental), the value of physical activity for health, and the knowledge of the principles and concepts of fitness and exercise. The results implied that practical online physical education courses must have meaningful two-way communication across all stakeholders, especially between teachers and students; that physical education teachers should collaborate; that teachers and students should meaningfully connect as part of one community, and that fun and enjoyment in P.E. classes should be a priority in designing the class activities within the learning environment.

EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION AS AN IMPETUS FOR COMFLICT MANAGEMENT IN A MULTI-STAFF PASTORAL MINISTRY

he paper titled “Effective Communication as an Impetus for Conflict Management in a Multi-staff Pastoral Setting” is descriptive research that explore the conflict management models, communication tools in Multi Pastoral setting. Knowing fully well that the work of ministry is enormous, there is therefore the need to engage more than one pastors in a local church to effectively facilitate ministerial assignments. Accomplishing this comes with several changes, conflict inclusive. Hence, the researcher interest in engaging meaningful communication to salvage conflict among members of pastoral staff. Thus, the paper clarifies the concepts, multi-pastoral Staff ministry, effective communication, and Conflict management. The work further probes into nature of conflict in multi-pastoral staff ministry and addresses the issue of managing conflict using effective communication principles. The research discovered that conflict among members of pastoral team can be managed when all pastoral team prepared to communicate well and clearly; they are ready to not only seek to be understood but to also understand, they are mindful of their tones as well as the basic content of the message; they consult with others whenever major decisions are to be taken, among others.

4C/ID for Foreign Language Communication Teaching

Aim/Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of a specialized instructional approach that combines empathic listening and culturally nuanced communication skills to enhance students’ preparedness for real-life cross-cultural interactions. By incorporating both psychological and specific sociocultural components within the 4C/ID model framework, this study aims to address the gaps in traditional communicative language teaching, which often emphasizes linguistic competence but lacks focus on the deeper cultural, psychological, and sociological dimensions essential for meaningful communication in diverse cultural contexts. Specifically, this study seeks to determine whether this integrated approach can improve communicative competence, bridge performance gaps between high- and low-achievers, and support the development of culturally adaptive communication skills among language learners. Background: While communicative language teaching approaches have significantly improved students’ readiness for real-life interactions, traditional methods often fail to prepare learners for the complexities of cross-cultural communication. These approaches typically emphasize linguistic competence and practical conversation skills but rarely incorporate deeper communicative competencies rooted in cross-cultural psychology, sociology, ethnography, or cultural studies. As a result, students may be able to use the language fluently yet lack the awareness of sociocultural behaviors, non-verbal cues, and context-specific communication strategies essential for meaningful cross-cultural exchanges. This study addresses these limitations by implementing a specialized training program based on the 4C/ID model, designed to integrate empathic listening and culturally nuanced communication skills, divided into psychological and specific sociocultural components. This provides a more comprehensive approach to preparing students for authentic intercultural interactions. Methodology: Experimental comparison of the effect sizes of a conventional language teaching methodology (the control group) and a 4C/ID model for communication teaching (the experimental group). Twenty-seven adults (25 females, 2 males, age range 18-36, mean age = 21.3) were randomly divided into control and experimental groups. They underwent cognitive testing before the learning period. The analysis showed no statistically significant differences in the groups’ results (Mann-Whitney U test). The students were taught Japanese using two methodologies for nine months. The experimental group had 4C/ID communication training, while the control group had conventional tasks. To assess language skills, written and oral tests were employed. The assessment of subjects’ oral skills was a blind test performed by a native speaker. Contribution: This paper contributes to the field of language education by advancing a comprehensive approach to teaching communicative competence that goes beyond traditional linguistic training. It introduces an instructional model that integrates empathic listening with culturally specific skills, combining insights from cross-cultural psychology, sociology, and ethnography within the framework of the 4C/ID model. Findings: - The ability to maintain dialogue is improved by the awareness of extralinguistic phenomena pertaining to a given speech community. - The systematic approach to communication teaching decreases the gap between low-achievers and high-achievers. - Special communication training affects the oral exam results but not the written exam. Recommendation for Researchers: To enhance the clarity and accuracy of research findings, it is advisable to differentiate between the pure linguistic, psychological, and sociocultural aspects of communication. Utilizing tests such as pre-tests and/or post-tests, tailored to the specific research objectives, can help in measuring these aspects separately and in isolation. Future Research: Future studies should explore the long-term effects of empathic listening and sociocultural training on communicative competence across diverse cultural contexts. Additionally, the research could investigate the minimum linguistic proficiency required to effectively employ these skills and the potential for adapting this approach to other fields where cross-cultural communication is essential, such as international business and healthcare.

The ‘Loose Use’ of Figurative Language in Pakistani TEDx Talks A Perspective of Relevance Theory

The current study utilised a qualitative approach to implement thematic analysis of the ‘loose use’ of figurative language in TEDx Talks, focusing on irony, hyperbole, and metaphor, within the framework of Relevance Theory by Wilson and Sperber, which states that the successful interpretation of figurative language depends on its own optimal relevance to the context. Two speeches from TEDx Pakistan, delivered in English, serve as the data sources. This qualitative study attempts to identify whether figurative utterances used in public speaking facilitate an appropriate interpretation of ideas. The study found that metaphor, hyperbole, and irony enhance communication without complicating interpretation. Metaphors connect details to the main message, hyperboles convey emotions vividly, and irony, when used appropriately, maintains meaningful communication. Also, strong implicatures are communicated instantly based on context and speaker attitude. This research suggests that mindful use of figurative language can empower public speakers to connect with audiences more deeply, paving the way for more impactful and memorable communication. There is a wide scope for future research in the public discourse of Pakistani English.

Can Telehealth Improve Access to Dietary Management in Patients Receiving Dialysis? Insights from Consumers.

Timely, effective, and individualised dietary interventions are essential for patients undergoing dialysis. However, delivery of dietary advice is challenging due to limited access to renal dietitians, as well as logistic and scheduling difficulties for patients receiving dialysis. The objectives of this study were to explore consumer perspectives regarding dietary advice utilising telehealth technology. Twenty-two participants (seventeen patients receiving dialysis, five caregivers) were purposively recruited from a local dialysis centre and participated in one of three focus groups. Each focus group was recorded, transcribed, and analysed using inductive thematic analysis. One overarching theme: "a desire to learn" was apparent. The four themes that facilitated this process are herein described: Meaningful communication-a need for improved and individualised communication about diet using positively framed messages with consistency among clinicians. Conducive information-a preference for tailored, current, and clear dietary information (plain language was preferred, with practical advice on making dietary changes). Appropriate timing-health advice at the right time (consumers felt overwhelmed, not supported enough with timely advice, and experienced difficulty attending appointments in addition to dialysis treatments). Contemporary modalities-delivering information using different technologies (consumers preferred a combination of delivery methods for dietetic advice including text/SMS/App messages as an adjunct to face-to-face care). The results showed that consumers believe that telehealth options are an acceptable adjunct to receive dietary advice in a timely manner, and feedback from patients and caregivers has informed the design of a clinical trial to incorporate the use of telehealth to improve the management of serum phosphate.

ASSESSING LEARNERS' INTERACTION QUALITY DURING DIGITAL STORY TELLING PROCESS

This qualitative study delves into digital storytelling, focusing on the quality of interactions among learners engaged in this innovative pedagogical approach. This research aims to provide a comprehensive description of these interactions, analyze the outcomes, and critically evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of interaction quality in the context of digital storytelling. Through in-depth interviews and participant observation, we explored the experiences of 21 grade X students at MA Al-Aman in Lamongan, East Java. Thematic analysis of the collected data revealed that digital storytelling fosters collaborative engagement, allowing students to work together, share ideas, and co-create narratives. It enhances their understanding of subject matter, nurtures meaningful discussions, and fosters improved communication skills. The advantages of this approach far outweigh the recognized disadvantages, such as occasional disagreements and time constraints for collaboration. This research contributes to the educational discourse, emphasizing the profound impact of interaction quality on learning experiences. However, this study has limitations related to its scope and qualitative nature. Future research should explore diverse educational settings, digital storytelling tools, and pedagogical strategies. In conclusion, this study highlights the transformative potential of interaction quality in the context of digital storytelling, offering students a dynamic platform for collaboration, meaningful communication, and enriched learning experiences.

Developing speaking skills through task-based learning in English as a foreign language classroom

When it comes to communication, speaking is a popular way to express oneself. The continuous experience of researchers involved in this study has shown that most students are unsuccessful or face problems with speaking skills. They encountered difficulties communicating themselves effectively and efficiently or even communicating in simple day-to-day English. This emphasizes the need for the active participation of learners in the process of learning. One such learner-centric and learning-centric method is Task-Based Language Teaching, which requires students to finish tasks that are significant to them as a part of the learning process. Learning through tasks emphasizes the utilization of language for the sake of meaningful communication. A communication method called task-based language teaching (TBLT) has been extensively used in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms. It has been demonstrated to be of considerable use in enhancing the communication abilities of students receiving instruction. Trying to understand better how tasks influence students’ desire to speak English and their spoken engagement with one another in the classroom, this research set out to answer these questions. The sample size of participants in the study included ninety adolescents who were students at Parul University. Their feedback indicated that the tasks were beneficial, both in terms of increasing their oral interaction in English and their enthusiasm to speak English in class.

Grammar Instruction in Communicative Language Teaching: Balancing Fluency and Accuracy for Language Proficiency

In this essay, we delve into the significance of teaching grammar within the context of Communicative Language Teaching (CLT). We explore the shift from traditional rote memorization methods to a more holistic, communication-centered approach and its implications for language learners. The essay discusses how teaching grammar in a CLT-based curriculum encourages authentic language use, balances accuracy and fluency, fosters learner autonomy, aligns with modern language competence perspectives, and allows for differentiated instruction. It also emphasizes the need for continuous professional development in this evolving field. This essay showcases the evolution of English language teaching, presenting grammar as a tool for meaningful communication, and highlights the future of language instruction in the globalized world.

Development and refinement of a communication guide to help young adults in Texas reconnect and reduce loneliness

Development and refinement of a communication guide to help young adults in Texas reconnect and reduce loneliness

Translingual Practices in Digital Environments: A Five-Year Longitudinal Study of Russian-Speaking Ethnic Korean Community

This five-year longitudinal study examines Russian-speaking ethnic Korean community members’ translingual practices in digital environments drawing upon the concept of translingualism. This study aims to investigate the pivotal role of the migrants’ online translingual practices in their daily lives and social integration in South Korea. For this study, data was collected from multiple sources and inductively analyzed. The findings reveal that during the initial settlement in South Korea, Russian-speaking ethnic Korean migrants (called Koryoin) predominantly used the Russian language in online (and offline) interactions as their local practices were mainly centered within the Koryoin community. However, as the migrants immersed themselves into various communities, they had slowly more engaged in translingual practices by switching between and mixing languages (Russian and Korean) for meaningful digital communication. Their translingual practices in digital environments enabled individuals to (1) situate and access resources within a broader online spatial context, (2) (re)build social relationships with other local community members, and (3) challenge social inequality in a host country (Korea). This study underscores the transformative potential of digital translingual practices, which appear to facilitate the (re)allocation of social status within their community and the (re)shaping of their language use. These findings suggest valuable implications for research and pedagogy for marginalized communities around the world.

Mental Health Services Integration in Primary Health Care in Iran: A Policy Analysis.

Objective: The National Mental Health Services (N-MHSs) in Iran was integrated with Primary Health Care (PHC) in 1988. This study aimeds to analyze the policy of integrating N-MHSs in PHC, focusing on the analysis of the current situation, pathology, and the existing challenge. Method : This qualitative research was conducted in 2020 using a case study approach. This study used the policy triangle model to analyze the policy. The required data were collected via interviews, literature review, and document analysis. The interviews were conducted with 23 experts, stakeholders across the country who were selected through purposive sampling, and the data were analyzed using the content-analysis method. Results: The main goals of this policy were to raise mental health literacy among the people and eliminate its stigma in the society, while implementing the referral system for N-MHSs. Twenty weaknesses were extracted in eight areas, including negative views of mental health, weaknesses in human resource training, compensation for the service of psychologists, unfavorable working conditions of the workforce, inappropriate service delivery facilities, lack of meaningful communication between different levels of service delivery, poor inter-sectorial communication, and the challenging nature of mental health care. De-stigmatizing psychological disorders in the society and identifying hidden patients are some of the most significant achievements of this policy. Conclusion: Despite the successful implementation and significant achievements in integrating N-MHSs in PHC, the results of the present study indicate that there are many challenges in this field that require serious planning and attention from relevant authorities.

Optimizing rural healthcare through improved team function: a case study of the Rural Surgical Obstetrical Networks programme

ABSTRACT We explored enablers and mechanisms of optimal team function within rural hospital teams, and the impact of these factors on health service sustainability in British Columbia. The data were drawn from interviews and focus groups with healthcare providers and administrators (n = 169) who participated in the Rural Surgical Obstetrical Networks (RSON) initiative to support low-volume rural surgical and obstetrical services in British Columbia, Canada. The 5-year programme (2018–2022) provided evidence-based system interventions across eight rural sites with the objective of providing sustainable, quality health services to meet population needs. To explore the impact of RSON interventions on local team function, we performed a scoping review, to assess the current literature surrounding enablers of effective rural hospital teamwork. Through inductive thematic analysis of interview data, we identified five enablers of good team function at RSON sites, including emphasis on local leadership, shared direction, commitment to sustainability, respect and solidarity among colleagues, and meaningful communication. The RSON project led to a shift in team culture in participating sites, improved team function, and contributed to improved clinical processes and patient outcomes. The findings have implications for rural health policy and practice in British Columbia and other jurisdictions with similar health service delivery models and geographic contexts.

Pandemic Preparedness in the Aged Care Sector: A systematic literature review

Infectious disease outbreaks in aged care services present challenges for consumers and staff. The vulnerability of users of aged care services and a lack of preparedness on the part of aged care services to manage the risk associated with viral disease transmission was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic.We used the PRISMA Method to review the available literature systematically. This qualitative review of the literature on pandemic preparedness assessed eight high-quality research papers and identified themes that emerged to support aged care services in preparing for future pandemics. These articles provided insight into what aged care services require to increase their capacity to respond to communicable disease outbreaks.Four themes emerged from the literature reviewed: Staff Training and Development, Safety Culture, Creating a Safe Environment by planning for contingencies and Risk and Resource Management (including resourcing for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), Leader Presence and Time Responses and Clear, Consistent Messaging) were the dominant themes in the literature. The researchers found that using guidelines and checklists is helpful but only if they are clear, not complex and do not take too long to read. Risk strategies in future must also focus on the resources required to protect staff, families, and consumers. This paper also provides recommendations that will allow aged care services to respond to future communicable disease outbreaks more effectively. Such measures include the need for a planning methodology that incorporates ready access to PPE, the use of meaningful communication, increased hazard and risk awareness and the need to create a safety culture within the service based on sound values, attitudes and behaviours of leaders and staff.

Increasing linguistic and prelinguistic communication for social closeness during naturalistic AAC instruction with young children on the autism spectrum

This study examined the effects of an intervention package using high-tech augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) with Naturalistic Instruction (NI), time delay, and prompting during social routines for preschoolers on the autism spectrum. The AAC was a communication application on a tablet programmed with color photo representations of participants and communication partners engaged in social routines. The primary dependent measure was a linguistic communication turn on the AAC device completing the instructor’s cloze phrase related to the routine. A secondary dependent measure was prelinguistic communication –nonspecific vocalizations and smiling – within each turn of the routine. Results indicated that all communication types increased and maintained for all three participants with two participants meeting mastery criteria within the minimal number of sessions. These results are significant in providing additional evidence for the effectiveness of AAC intervention beyond teaching simple object requests and in teaching more socially meaningful communication to children on the autism spectrum. Additionally, this study supports the use of color photo representations to promote social interaction. Future research should continue to evaluate such interventions on a larger scale and include naturally occurring communication partners, such as siblings and peers.

A glimpse of the potential of task-based language teaching in fostering effective communication (on the example of the topic Mood Food)

It is a matter of common fact that the modern world is becoming more and more globalized. The desire of students to become multilingual is clear and justified. Without any doubt, those who are fluent not only in their mother tongue, but also in other languages will, have higher competitiveness in the labour market. Knowledge of a foreign language, especially English, is an urgent need both for professional and personal growth. It is considered an important component of future professional image. All these prerequisites have given rise to launching an elective course “Communicative English” at Cherkasy State Business College. The offered toolkit can serve as a teacher’s set of resources to foster effective communication related to the topic MOOD FOOD. The analysis of top current trends in teaching ESL proves that Task-Based Language Teaching (TBLT) will continue to dominate classrooms. The material is designed in accordance with TBLT approach facilitating students’ engagement in meaningful communication. It presents the combination of TBLT with the other educational approaches such as authenticity, gamification of learning, cultural awareness, creativity, collaboration, inquiry-based learning. The presented tasks and activities enable a teacher to create a learning environment rather than just a classroom inspiring students and having better outcomes.