Communication strategies to empower ESL learners in small group discussions / Kaarthiyainy Supramaniam and Sheela Paramasivam

In the last two decades, there has been increasing interest and research in the field of conversational analysis. This paper investigates Communication Strategies that are deeply embedded in the general language learning strategies (LLS) which includes second-language and foreign language learning (Rubin, 1975). It is in the heart of contemporary eclectic language learning and teaching and various researchers have created models and taxonomies to understand the dynamism of this communicative tool. Knowing Communication Strategies and to be able to use it appropriately in speech is essential for academic success. It his research reports on undergraduates' use of Communication Strategies in their small group discussions, where the speaking component is assessed in the UiTM BEL syllabus. Although the undergraduates have been exposed to speaking skills and strategies in the Mainstream English course, there seems to be recurring problems where they lack necessary grammatical structures and vocabulary to express their ideas effectively. In this study, eight groups were trained over 8 weeks and their discussions audio-video taped. Transcription of their discussion revealed various strategies and problems that need to be addressed by language practitioners in order to empower students in their learning process as group discussions may pose a different set of challenges to these ESL learners who may have to deal with both language proficiency (langue) and procedural know-how (parole).