THE IMPACT OF UTILIZING EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLOGY TOOLS ON IMPROVING THE SPEAKING PROFICIENCY OF ENGLISH AS A FOREIGN LANGUAGE STUDENTS AT A UNIVERSITY IN VIETNAM

Abstract

In this study, the efficacy of educational technology tools in enhancing speaking skills was explored through a quasi-experimental design involving 84 IT freshmen. Employing tools such as FORVO (FV), YouGlish (YG), and Oxford Advanced Learners' Dictionary (OALD) 8th edition, the research compared the speaking abilities of students using these technologies (experimental group) against those taught through traditional methods (control group). Data collection encompassed tests, questionnaires, interviews, and instructor logs, with extensive sampling used for student selection. Analysis through an independent samples T-test and thematic analysis revealed that the experimental group showed significant improvements in speaking fluency, coherence, accuracy, vocabulary range, grammatical structure, and pronunciation. Additionally, these students displayed positive attitudes towards using speaking technology tools. These findings suggest the potential of integrating technology in language learning, emphasizing the need for educators and learners to stay updated with technological advancements in this domain.