Cooperative learning strategies in oral communication skills classrooms : an exploratory study in an intensive English program in a private Lebanese University

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate to what extent cooperative learning (CL) strategies are being used in the Intensive English Program (IEP) at a private university in North Lebanon and to explore the perceptions of students, teachers and course coordinator concerning the use of CL strategies in oral communication classes. Using observations, questionnaires, interviews, and a textbook review, I discovered that speaking is being taught in the university and very few elements of cooperative learning are being used in some OCS classes. The coordinator of the IEP and most of the students had a positive attitude towards CL and some teachers had a positive view regarding it. Despite the IEP teachers and coordinators positive perceptions of CL, it was not emphasized in the IEP classrooms in general. It was found that some teachers use a teacher-centered approach; some use a learner-centered approach while others combine both. Some elements of cooperative learning – which are pair work, group work, group presentations, and being graded as a team – are being used in some OCS classes but not in all of them. The students have quite a positive view towards cooperative learning strategies. Three OCS teachers are positive about cooperative learning strategies while one is doubtful. The coordinator of the IEP himself uses some elements of cooperative learning and encourages the OCS teachers to use them.