Language activities as a platform for second/foreign language learning : its relevance and challenges

Abstract

This study seeks to identify the relevance and challenges faced in conducting language activities to help foster second/foreign language learning at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Terengganu. This is also aimed at assisting the organization to review practices of having language activities, hoping this may further cultivate and generate enthusiasm among students to learn second/foreign languages. This research also offers some possible ways to improve students' activities so as to help enhance their second/foreign language learning. In other words, this research may serve as a preliminary attempt aiming at providing reflections and insights on how students' participation in language activities conductedmay be usefulfor them in learning second/foreign languages. The research employs quantitative methodology in which random stratified sampling technique is used Samples consist of Bumiputera students taking English (as a second language) and Mandarin, French, and Arabic classes (as foreign languages). Generally, students are ofthe opinion that language activities can become a significant platform to project andshow their language skills and competency during presentations/performances. Nevertheless, as one ofmany recommendations suggested in the findings of this research, wefound that there is still a needfor evaluation andfo//ow-up work after having participated in the language activities.

The Usefulness Using Chinese Karaoke to Support Chinese Learning

“…By participating in singing activity, students were able to improve their pronunciation, appreciate the song lyrics, etc. Goh et al (2006) reported that language activities are very relevant for second and foreign language learning. Various aspects of language learning are enhanced such as the learning of tones, vocabulary, syntax Kunert et al, 2016), developing listening skill (Asaridou & McQueen, 2013), improve speech production (Francois et al, 2013), etc.…”

“…Learners with higher learning motivation are able to perform better compared to learners with lower motivation (Goh & Ng, 2004). At the same time, there are many factors that will affect the effectiveness of the use of language activities such as singing on language learning (Goh et al, 2006). Among them, the level of students' attainment of language, the preparedness of students, the winning factors, gender, and etc, would have affected students' perceptions.…”