The use of drama techniques to improve the speaking performance in an EFL course: a case study

Abstract

“Drama Techniques are used within the English as a Foreign or Second Language classroom activities and may be useful to develop the oral communication skills and self-confidence. This study was carried out in order to explore the use of theater drama techniques for improving speaking performance in an EFL class with teenagers and adults. In situ observation was vital for this Case Study where the teacher-researcher focused on a drama language technique experience during an EFL course for true beginners. This exploration has permitted to examine an EFL class community, where some adapted drama techniques were applied as part of the class in order to develop the speaking performance and, at the same time, to obtain the general perception from the participants’ experience: students and teacher-researcher. In 2015 this Case Study provided enough information about the advantages of applying drama techniques as a tool in a EFL first course. The results show us different points of view from the students and the teacher and their development of their speaking performance”.