Synchronous Computer-Mediated Interactions in English

Abstract

This paper aims to investigate to what extent Synchronous Computer-Mediated Communication with non-native speakers of English affects Engineering students' speaking skills, and how the use of SCMC in speaking practice is perceived by the students. Grounded in an ex post facto design, the data were gained from teacher journals, and interviews to fifteen vocational secondary students majoring in Engineering engaged in SCMC for one semester. Findings showed that SCMC did not indicate positive effects on improving Engineering-related vocabulary and accurate grammar use compared with their pronunciation aspect. The use of SCMC was considered negative in terms of interaction with their interlocutors, and technicalities. However, few students positively perceived that they found it joyful learning within SCMC and got motivated to improve their speaking skills within their interaction with their nonnative speakers of English they met online.

Anxiety No More: The EFL Students Voice On the Use FTF VS SCMC toward Their Speaking Anxiety

“…However, between some of the advantages and disadvantages felt by the participants, participants A and E stated that there was no improvement in these two environments. This statement is supported by the study by (Abuseileek & Qatawneh, 2013;Handayani et al, 2021), who discovered that using SCMC did not suggest a beneficial effect on the student. They agree that the ability can be improved depending on one's desire if there is a particular intention to learn.…”