Project – The effectiveness of drama techniques in teaching English language skills to Esan west LGA, Edo State Student

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The use of drama techniques in teaching English language skills has been a subject of interest in recent years. Drama techniques, such as role-play, improvisation, and mime, have been found to be effective in enhancing students’ language skills, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing (Kao & O’Neill, 1998). In the context of Esan West LGA, Edo State, Nigeria, the application of these techniques could potentially address the challenges faced by students in learning English.

A study by Dougill (1987) suggests that drama techniques can create a more engaging and interactive learning environment, which can motivate students to participate actively in the learning process. This is particularly relevant for students in Esan West LGA, where traditional teaching methods may not be as effective in engaging students. The use of drama techniques can provide students with a more practical and hands-on approach to learning English, which can enhance their understanding and retention of the language.

However, the effectiveness of drama techniques in teaching English language skills is not without its challenges. One of the main challenges is the lack of resources and trained teachers to implement these techniques effectively (Maley & Duff, 2005). In the context of Esan West LGA, this challenge could be exacerbated by the limited resources available in the region. Therefore, it is crucial to provide adequate training and resources for teachers to effectively implement drama techniques in their teaching.

Despite these challenges, several studies have shown positive outcomes from the use of drama techniques in teaching English. For instance, a study by Stinson and Freebody (2006) found that drama techniques can enhance students’ confidence and self-esteem, which can in turn improve their language skills. This finding is particularly relevant for students in Esan West LGA, where low self-esteem and lack of confidence in using English may be prevalent.

Furthermore, while there are challenges in implementing drama techniques in teaching English language skills, the potential benefits make it a worthwhile approach to consider. For students in Esan West LGA, Edo State, the use of drama techniques could provide a more engaging and effective way to learn English. However, further research is needed to explore the specific needs and contexts of these students to ensure the effective implementation of these techniques.

• Statement of the Problem

The problem of teaching English language skills effectively to students in Esan West LGA, Edo State, is a significant one. Traditional methods of teaching English, such as rote memorization and grammar drills, have been found to be less effective in promoting language fluency and comprehension. This has led to a search for alternative teaching methods that can better engage students and promote more effective language learning.

One such alternative method is the use of drama techniques in teaching English. Drama techniques, which include role-play, improvisation, and mime, among others, have been found to be effective in teaching English language skills in various contexts. However, there is a lack of research on the effectiveness of these techniques in the specific context of Esan West LGA, Edo State.

The students in Esan West LGA, Edo State, face unique challenges in learning English. These include a lack of exposure to native English speakers, limited resources for language learning, and cultural barriers that may affect their motivation and ability to learn English. These challenges make it even more important to find effective teaching methods that can help these students improve their English language skills.

The use of drama techniques in teaching English has been found to be effective in other contexts. Drama techniques significantly improved students’ English speaking and listening skills in a Korean context. However, it is unclear whether these findings can be generalized to the context of Esan West LGA, Edo State.

Furthermore, there is a lack of understanding of how drama techniques can be effectively implemented in the classroom. While some studies have suggested that drama techniques can be integrated into the existing curriculum, others have argued for a more radical overhaul of the curriculum to incorporate drama techniques. This lack of consensus makes it difficult for teachers in Esan West LGA, Edo State, to know how to effectively use drama techniques in their classrooms.

Furthermore, while there is some evidence to suggest that drama techniques can be effective in teaching English language skills, there is a lack of research on their effectiveness in the specific context of Esan West LGA, Edo State. This gap in the literature makes it difficult for teachers in this area to know how to effectively implement these techniques in their classrooms. Therefore, there is a need for further research on this topic.

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine the effectiveness of drama techniques in teaching English language skills to Esan west LGA, Edo State Student. The specific objectives are:

1. To evaluate the impact of drama techniques on the improvement of English language skills among students in Esan west LGA.
2. To assess the level of student engagement and participation in English language learning when drama techniques are employed.
3. To determine the correlation between the use of drama techniques and the enhancement of students’ writing skills in English.
4. To identify the challenges and limitations faced by educators in implementing drama techniques in English language teaching.

1.4  Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. How effective are drama techniques in improving English language skills among students in Esan west LGA?
2. What is the level of student engagement and participation in English language learning when drama techniques are employed?
3. Is there a correlation between the use of drama techniques and the enhancement of students’ writing skills in English?
4. What are the challenges and limitations faced by educators in implementing drama techniques in English language teaching?

 Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Drama techniques has no significant impact on the improvement of English language skills among students

H1: Drama techniques has significant impact on the improvement of English language skills among students

1.6. Significance of the Study

The significance of employing drama techniques in teaching English language skills to students in Esan West LGA, Edo State, is multifaceted. Firstly, it provides an innovative and engaging approach to language learning. Traditional methods of teaching English often focus on rote memorization and grammar drills, which can be monotonous and disengaging for students. Drama techniques, on the other hand, offer a more interactive and immersive learning experience, which can potentially enhance students’ interest and engagement in the subject (Boudreault, 2010).

Secondly, drama techniques can potentially improve students’ language proficiency. By participating in drama activities, students are given the opportunity to practice their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills in a context that mimics real-life situations. This can lead to a more holistic development of their language skills (Kao & O’Neill, 1998).

Thirdly, the use of drama techniques can foster a more positive learning environment. Drama activities often require students to work collaboratively, which can promote a sense of community and mutual respect among students. This can potentially lead to a more conducive learning environment, which can further enhance students’ learning outcomes (Even, 2003).

Fourthly, drama techniques can potentially enhance students’ critical thinking skills. By engaging in drama activities, students are often required to analyze and interpret different situations, which can stimulate their critical thinking skills. This can potentially lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the English language (Winston, 2012).

Fifthly, the use of drama techniques can potentially enhance students’ cultural awareness. Drama activities often involve the exploration of different cultures and perspectives, which can broaden students’ worldview and enhance their cultural awareness. This can potentially lead to a more inclusive and respectful learning environment (Bolton, 1998).

Lastly, the use of drama techniques can potentially enhance students’ self-confidence. By participating in drama activities, students are given the opportunity to express themselves creatively, which can boost their self-confidence. This can potentially lead to a more positive attitude towards learning English (Gaudart, 1990).

1.7. Scope of the Study

The effectiveness of drama techniques in teaching English language skills to Esan west LGA, Edo State Student.

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

Effectiveness: This refers to the degree to which something is successful in producing a desired result. In the context of this study, effectiveness would measure how well drama techniques improve English language skills among students.

Drama Techniques: These are strategies used in dramatic performances to convey meaning to the audience. In an educational context, drama techniques could include role-play, improvisation, mime, and storytelling, among others. These techniques are used to engage students, stimulate creativity, and facilitate learning.

Teaching: This is the process of imparting knowledge or skills to others. It involves a range of strategies and methods designed to support learning, including explanation, demonstration, and guided practice.

English Language: This is a West Germanic language that was first spoken in early medieval England and is now a global lingua franca. It is used for communication in various fields such as education, business, entertainment, and more.

Skills: These are the abilities gained through training or experience. In the context of English language learning, skills would typically refer to reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

Project – The effectiveness of drama techniques in teaching English language skills to Esan west LGA, Edo State Student