Factors affecting EFL student ́s oral communication skills

Abstract

Abstract: The main objective of this research was to identify the factors that affect public high school students proficiency in English oral communication during the pandemic period 2019-2020 in Loja city. This work seeks to collect data about the social and psychological impact reflected in several EFL students abilities to communicate in the target language. An online questionnaire was applied to 40 high school students who expressed their feelings about the classroom environment and the development of oral skills. Also, surveys and interviews were administered to 5 teachers to determine which methods and techniques were used by each educator. Another tool of this research was the class observation sheets, which helped observe/analyze the attitudes of both students and teachers. The conclusion highlights the fundamental importance of motivation, both in and out of the classroom, for students to develop activities that help them improve their speaking skills.