Effects of a Video Featuring Connected Speech Instruction on EFL Undergraduates in Taiwan

Abstract

This study has the aim of improving the English speaking ability of Taiwanese college freshmen by a video featuring connected speech instruction. Forty-eight students from a private university in northern Taiwan participated in the study, which lasted for 7 weeks. Pre- and post-tests were used to assess their speaking performance in terms of connected speech before and after the experimental treatment. Entry and exit questionnaires were also used to investigate students' learning attitudes. The results show that such instruction was significantly effective for improving the English language learners' connected speech skills. Positive results were also observed in the outcomes of the questionnaires, showing significantly enhanced learning attitudes to English speaking. It is hoped that the study results may offer language teachers some insights into the practice of video-aided learning in English speech classes, particularly its efficacy for connected speech.