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

Abstract

Abstract: This study aims to determine and analyze linguistic and emotional factors that impact students' ability to communicate in face-to-face learning environments. The research was conducted in a public educational institution in Santo Domingo with the participation of 40 students in their first year of secondary school. The method used was mixed, the techniques used were the survey, observations, and interviews. Two questionnaires were used, one for gathering information about linguistic factors and another for obtaining information about emotional factors. Interviews were conducted with five students regarding their English language acquisition to obtain students' opinions about learning English. The observation classes were conducted to analyze how linguistic and emotional factors affect students, using an observation sheet to collect information during three classes. The survey data underwent quantitative analysis. This research revealed that the primary linguistic factor impacting EFL students is insufficient vocabulary, affecting the correct use of oral communication and thereby impacting performance in oral skills.