Speakers
Description
This study investigates the perceptions of English-as-a-Foreign-Language (EFL) students regarding the use of open educational resources (OER) for self-directed speaking practice. It examines the current state of OER usage, students’ attitudes toward using OER for self-directed English speaking practice, and the benefits and challenges they experience. Employing a mixed-method research design, the study involved 150 English-major students at a public university in Central Vietnam and used questionnaires and semi-structured interviews as data collection tools. The findings reveal that most students had experience in using OER and held positive attitudes toward practicing speaking skills through various OER platforms. In terms of the benefits of using OER for self-directed speaking practice, the results show that using OER helps students improve various aspects of their speaking skills, such as pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary, and overcome both linguistic and non-linguistic challenges in learning speaking skills. The study also identifies several challenges students face when using OER to practice speaking skills, including difficulties with self-regulation, confusion in selecting OER sources suited to their proficiency level, and the lack of detailed feedback. These findings provide valuable insights for both EFL teachers and students to effectively utilize OER for speaking instruction and self-directed speaking practice.
Biography
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Tran-Hoai-An PHAM is a senior student at University of Foreign Languages, Hue University, majoring in English Language Teaching. Her research interests include language teaching, teacher education, sustainable language learning, and professional development. She has extensive experience teaching English as a foreign or second language to underprivileged learners across various proficiency levels, including students with visual impairments. Additionally, she has been actively involved in teacher training programs, particularly in implementing effective teaching approaches and methods for underprivileged students.
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Pham Thi Thai Ha has recently completed her fourth year at the University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, Hue University, and is currently awaiting the conferral of her Bachelor's degree in English Language Teaching. Her research interests include technology in language education, teacher training, and EFL teaching methodologies. She has three years of experience teaching children and teenagers, with a focus on developing the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing, as well as enhancing their presentation skills.
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Nguyen Thuy An is a final-year student in the Bachelor of English Language Teaching program at the University of Foreign Languages and International Studies, Hue University, Vietnam. Her academic interests include teacher identity, technology integration in EFL classrooms, modern teaching methodologies, critical thinking in education, and reflective practice. Alongside her formal education, she has gained four years of experience teaching English to learners of various proficiency levels. Throughout her academic journey, she has actively participated in a range of scholarly activities, including conducting research, engaging in professional development programs, and enhancing her instructional skills.
