Learning with Digital Tools: The Impact of Integrating ICT on Students' Speaking Proficiency

Abstract

Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have become common place entities in all aspects of life. Rapid evolution of communication technologies has changed language pedagogy and language use, enabling new ways of learning. Speaking is part of the language skills which is important for language learners to be developed. In foreign language education, improving the speaking skills of students has always been a challenge. The current study focuses on the role and impact of using new technologies in enhancing students' oral performance. The aim of the study is to highlight the effectiveness and the positive outcomes of integrating ICT on learners' oral communicative competencies. The research used a convenience sample of five (5) teachers experienced teaching oral expression and comprehension and twenty (20) second year English students who were invited to respond to questionnaires survey. The findings of this study indicated that the participants spent more time using ICT for private purposes rather than using them for learning how to develop their communicative skills. Most of the respondents expressed positive attitudes towards ICT use to study English and learn how to speak. The study recommends the integration of ICT in English classes in order to maximize communicative competencies attainment on the part of the learners.