Factors that influence high school students' English oral communication skills in Ecuadorian face-to-face learning environments

Abstract

Abstract: The present study, titled "Factors that influence high school students' English oral communication skills in Ecuadorian face-to-face learning environments," sought to unravel the impact of linguistic and emotional factors on the oral communication skills of high school students. The research was conducted in a rural area near Tena city, Ecuador, with a sample consisting of fifteen students and two English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers. In terms of methodology, a mixed-method approach was employed, utilizing quantitative methods to quantify and analyze specific numerical data related to the linguistic and emotional aspects, and qualitative methods to delve into the nuanced emotional factors influencing oral communication skills. Additionally, a student - teachers questionnaire, observation sheet, and a semi-structured interview were used as resources to gather the data. The study found that high school students face significant challenges in vocabulary, grammar usage, sentence structure, and fluency when communicating in English it is in reference to linguistic aspects. Meanwhile, in emotional barriers like fear, feeling blocked, and heightened tension significantly affect students' active engagement, hindering fluency and participation in language-related tasks.