Peer Interaction in English Speaking Skills

Speaking skills remain a challenging skill for learners of English as a Second Language (ESL), as compared to other language skills (reading, writing, and listening). This issue could stem from a variety of factors such as anxiety, interference of first language, or lack of interaction in the target language. This study aims to explore the role of peer interaction in English speaking skills among the ESL learners. In order to investigate this issue, this study employed a purely quantitative research approach, specifically through a survey research design. A set of questionnaire was utilised as the instrument to gather data among tertiary level ESL students of one public university in Malaysia. The respondents were chosen using simple random sampling to measure the viewpoints of students across different academic years in one faculty. Based on the findings of this study, it was found that students had a positive view towards peer interaction in English language, seeing it as helpful for becoming more fluent and building their confidence, as well as encouraging them to participate more in English language classes. While issues like anxiety and different level of proficiency among peers become a concern, these were not considered as major problems. These findings highlight the value of peer interaction in the field of Second Language Acquisition (SLA) and the teaching of English language in ESL classrooms.

Peer interaction, English speaking skills, ESL learners

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