Exploring English speaking ability by using short movies

Abstract

The study investigated how short movies can enhance English-speaking skills among ESL learners. The purpose of this exploration was to inquire the students’ perceptions to this new language teaching alternative. It was qualitative research , specifically practical action research, focusing on improving students’ English-speaking skill, empowering the researcher to involve in the research process, fostering collaboration, generating practical knowledge, promoting reflective practice (Carr & Kemmis, 2003; Stringer et al., 2010), facilitating meaningful change by using short movies. Qualitative methods were used: the pedagogical diary, teacher’s observations, an external observer’ notes, the semi-structured interviews and the triangulation method for the credibility and trustworthiness of the findings. The data were collected (using Glater model), descriptively analyzed, the results showing that short movies helped the students become more communicative during English classes. The research involved 26 high school students from Onesti, Romania. Sixteen short movies with native English-speaking characters were utilized from YouTube and Hope Discovery, exploring themes related to teenagers’ social and emotional aspects. Incorporating short movies into English classes was an efficient and enjoyable method to boost speaking performance.

Keywords

• Learning strategies
• short movies
• speaking English
• practical action research
• media education in high school