Using Voice Thread to Enhance Speaking Accuracy: A Case Study of Iranian EFL Learners

Volume 8 Issue 3 July - September 2018

Research Paper

Using Voice Thread to Enhance Speaking Accuracy: A Case Study of Iranian EFL Learners

Saman Ebadi* , Ahmad Asakereh**

* Associate Professor of Applied Linguistics, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.

** Ph.D. Student in Applied Linguistics, Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran.

Ebadi, S., & Asakereh, A. (2018). Using Voice Thread to Enhance Speaking Accuracy: A Case Study of Iranian EFL Learners. i-manager’s Journal on English Language Teaching, 8(3), 29-42. https://doi.org/10.26634/jelt.8.3.13998

Abstract

The present study investigated the possible contribution of Voice Thread (VT) website to the Iranian EFL learners' speaking accuracy in terms of using correct form of hypothetical conditional sentences. Moreover, the language learners' perception of the website was also explored. To this end, 18 English literature freshmen from a state university in Iran were recruited for the study. The participants were randomly assigned to control (n=9) and experimental groups (n=9). The control group performed merely face-to-face tasks while the experimental group conducted face-to-face and asynchronous online speaking tasks using VT website. The results of the mixed methods study revealed that both groups enhanced their speaking accuracy and the experimental group failed to outperform the control group. Furthermore, the findings of a semi-structured interview, which were corroborated by those of dairy writing, indicated that even though the experimental group appreciated the significance of the website, they assumed that it could not cater to their needs. The findings of the study encourage teachers and researchers alike to pay due attention to learners' perception of their learning experience in general and their experience with Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) in particular.