Task-Based Learning to Promote English Speaking Ability of Grade 2 Students

Abstract

Background and Aims: English speaking is considered an essential skill at the international level. Many countries, including Thailand, have recognized its importance by incorporating English into the curriculum, starting with early childhood education. Although students have continuously studied English, many still struggle with using the language in real communication. Therefore, the researcher adopted a Task-Based Learning (TBL) approach to enhance students’ English-speaking ability more effectively. The purpose of this research was to 1) study the effectiveness of task-based learning activities for 2nd grade students according to the 75/75 efficiency criterion, 2) compare the English speaking ability of Grade 2 students before and after learning through
task-based learning management, and 3) study the satisfaction of Grade 2 students with the task-based learning activities.

Methodology: The sample group consisted of 15 Grade 2 students in the second semester of the academic year 2024 at Kham Riang Khiab Non Sabaeng Don Man School, Mahasarakham Province. The sample was obtained by using a cluster random sampling method. The research instruments were 1) task-based learning lesson plans,
2) assessment of English speaking ability, and 3) a student satisfaction questionnaire regarding Task-based learning activities. The statistical methods used for data analysis included percentage, mean, standard deviation, and a dependent t-test.

Results: 1) Task-based learning activities designed to promote English speaking ability had an efficiency value of 81.77/80.28, which was higher than the predetermined criteria, 2) the students who received task-based learning instruction demonstrated significantly higher English speaking ability after the learning, at the .05 level of statistical significance, and 3) the overall level of student satisfaction with the task-based learning activities was high. (= 2.71, = 0.50).

Conclusion: Task-Based Learning effectively enhances the English speaking ability
of Grade 2 students and can be suitably applied to develop learners at higher grade levels.

Background and Aims: English speaking is considered an essential skill at the international level. Many countries, including Thailand, have recognized its importance by incorporating English into the curriculum, starting with early childhood education. Although students have continuously studied English, many still struggle with using the language in real communication. Therefore, the researcher adopted a Task-Based Learning (TBL) approach to enhance students’ English-speaking ability more effectively. The purpose of this research was to 1) study the effectiveness of task-based learning activities for 2nd grade students according to the 75/75 efficiency criterion, 2) compare the English speaking ability of Grade 2 students before and after learning through
task-based learning management, and 3) study the satisfaction of Grade 2 students with the task-based learning activities.

Methodology: The sample group consisted of 15 Grade 2 students in the second semester of the academic year 2024 at Kham Riang Khiab Non Sabaeng Don Man School, Mahasarakham Province. The sample was obtained by using a cluster random sampling method. The research instruments were 1) task-based learning lesson plans,
2) assessment of English speaking ability, and 3) a student satisfaction questionnaire regarding Task-based learning activities. The statistical methods used for data analysis included percentage, mean, standard deviation, and a dependent t-test.

Results: 1) Task-based learning activities designed to promote English speaking ability had an efficiency value of 81.77/80.28, which was higher than the predetermined criteria, 2) the students who received task-based learning instruction demonstrated significantly higher English speaking ability after the learning, at the .05 level of statistical significance, and 3) the overall level of student satisfaction with the task-based learning activities was high. (= 2.71, = 0.50).

Conclusion: Task-Based Learning effectively enhances the English speaking ability
of Grade 2 students and can be suitably applied to develop learners at higher grade levels.