Title: The effect of computer-mediated communication cooperative learning structures and techniques on improving EFL learners' speaking skill

Authors: Ali Farhan Abuseileek; Awatif M. AbuAlshar

Addresses: Al al-Bayt University, P.O. Box 772 Jubayha, Jordan ' Al al-Bayt University, P.O. Box 772 Jubayha, Jordan

Abstract: This study sought to investigate the effect of computer-mediated communication (CMC) cooperative learning structures and presence/absence of cooperative learning techniques on improving pre-intermediate learners speaking skill. They participated in five CMC oral activities, each containing four tasks. Each activity was carried out in one of five 1.5 hour sessions using the NetOP virtual class system. Findings indicated that there was a main effect for the four cooperative learning structures (team-pair-solo, partners, jigsaw, and think-pair-share) over the control condition (positive interdependence) where no special role or task was assigned to any group member. The team pair solo was found to be the most functional cooperative learning structure as it was helpful in improving the speaking skill. Similarly, both techniques were reported to be very helpful in improving participants' performance in speaking. Finally, the study raises major implications related to the development of CMC systems for teaching/learning linguistic skills, including speaking.

Keywords: CMC; computer-mediated communication; networked computers; networks; cooperation; speaking skills; cooperative techniques; cooperative structures; cooperative groups; cooperative learning; group work; learning structures; learning techniques; EFL; English language; foreign languages; pre-intermediate learners; oral activities; Netop; classroom management systems; e-learning; electronic learning; online learning; internet; world wide web; team-pair-solo; think-pair-share; partners; jigsaw structure; control conditions; positive interdependence; linguistic skills; Al al-Bayt University; universities; higher education; Jordan; learning technology.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLT.2012.052210

International Journal of Learning Technology, 2012 Vol.7 No.4, pp.334 - 352

Published online: 06 Sep 2014 *

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