学生によるプレゼンテーションをリスニングの授業に導入する意義

Abstract

The present study explores the significance of incorporating “mini-presentations” in EFL(English as a Foreign Language) listening courses. Public speaking seems to be a skill on which Japanese students have generally received little training, possibly due to the lack of emphasis on the ability in the current Japanese school curriculum. However, developing Japanese students’ adeptness to express one’s ideas publicly in English is becoming increasingly important not only for students to survive and actively participate in the globalized world but also for the country to maintain its presence in the international community. This paper first describes how elements of student presentation can be systematically incorporated into a course whose main focus is indirectly influencing the improvement of presentation skills per se. The potential benefits of adding presentation components, such as development of delivery skills, increased awareness toward English writing structures, opportunities to use English for authentic communication, peer learning, and improvement in group dynamics are then discussed. Results of student questionnaires subsequently presented suggest that students became motivated in making presentations and that they value public speaking opportunities. Such results also highlight the need to place more emphasis on presentation skills in the English curriculum.