Abstract:

Methodology:
The current study used quasi-experimental research design. It involved two groups: the experimental group and the control group.
The primary purpose of the current research study was to investigate whether and to what extent the application of strategies might have an effect on the development of Armenian EFL learners’ oral proficiency. Thus, the first research question that was formulated was the following:
Due to the fact, that the number of students was small (12 students in each group), and the distribution of scores was not normal, the non-parametric Mann-Whitney and Wilcoxon tests were used to compare the sets of scores obtained from the groups (experimental and control).

To determine whether the participants of both of the groups (experimental and control) have significantly improved their spoken production due to the instructions, Wilcoxon test was needed. Wilcoxon test was performed on the pre and the post achievement tests of each group.

Mann-Whitney U Test was used to reveal if there was any significant difference between the performance of the experimental and the control group at the onset of the study.

“Both the experimental and the control groups have significantly improved their oral proficiency due to the instruction. The results of Wilcoxon test showed that there is a significant difference between the pre and the post tests results in both groups in favor of the post tests.

The results of Mann-Whitney U Test performed between the scores of both groups on the speaking pretest scores revealed that at the onset of the study both of the groups were similar regarding the learners’ oral proficiency. The same test performed on the speaking post tests scores revealed that the treatment in the experimental group was more effective than the one in the control group. Thus, it may be inferred that strategy-based instruction may have a positive effect on the development of learners’ speaking skills.”

Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected to reveal learner’s attitude towards using strategies to improve speaking skills.The quantitative data were collected though the questionnaire, and the interview served as an instrument to collect the qualitative data.

“Learners have positive attitude towards using strategies in their language classes. They consider using strategies to be an important element in their language classes, as it allows them to improve their speaking skills offering a number of opportunities such as freedom, exposure to the target language outside the classroom, etc.. Learners think that strategies may be used as an appropriate method to enhance their speaking skills”

Findings:
The findings of the study highlight that use of strategies is not just a simple process of learning. The application of strategies may offer a whole range of new opportunities for language teachers to extend their students’ speaking skills in a fun and engaging ways. The latter provides a learning environment that is enjoyable, stress free and effective for learning.

To conclude the current research study, it may be claimed that strategy based instruction enhances learners’ speaking skills. The program may be an appropriate method for improving oral production. It is fun for students as it includes many elements contributed by students themselves. The use of strategies makes students responsible and self-directed.

Keywords:

Speaking, strategy, EFL learners.