THE EFFECTS OF PROJECT-BASED LEARNING ON EFL STUDENTS’ SPEAKING FLUENCY AT HO CHI MINH CITY UNIVERSITY OF TRANSPORT

Abstract

This study examines the effects of Project-Based Learning (PBL) on the speaking fluency of firstyear non-English majors at Ho Chi Minh City University of Transport. A quasi-experimental design with
120 students compared a PBL group to a grammar-translation control group. Pre- and post-test results
showed that the PBL group significantly outperformed the control group in accuracy, speed, coherence,
and overall fluency (p < .001). Interviews revealed that while students initially struggled with vocabulary
gaps, grammar, and anxiety, PBL gradually built confidence, encouraged spontaneous speaking, and
improved idea organization. The findings confirm PBL’s value in developing communicative competence
and suggest its integration into Vietnamese EFL programs to better prepare learners for academic and
professional communication.