EFL Collaborative Learning In A Vietnamese University: Perceptions And Experiences Of Students And Teachers.

Abstract

English has become an international language that numerous students around the world are learning as a second language. Many educational and linguistic researchers consider collaborative learning (CoL) as a valuable approach for education, especially for language teaching and learning. Unfortunately, there have been few studies to investigate the perceptions learners have of CoL experiences, and concerns have been raised about using CoL in English as a foreign language (EFL) classes in Vietnam and other Asian countries. To investigate these issues, a study was conducted of the practices of EFL teaching at a Vietnamese university and the perceptions of teachers and students about CoL. The study employed qualitative and quantitative research methods through the use of interviews and focus-groups, classroom observations, and survey questions. It was found that certain CoL approaches are being used at this university, but that there are also many difficulties associated with the application of CoL to English teaching and learning. A number of suggestions are proposed to improve CoL in the Vietnamese EFL context, such as providing teachers and students with further knowledge about CoL techniques and its potential for enhancing the learning of English by students, as well as practical tips for implementing CoL. It is hoped that this study will raise awareness about CoL for use in EFL classes in Vietnam and Asia and stimulate further research into ways to enhance language learning and the English communicative ability of students as part of their education for international communication and the demands of globalization.