Oral and writing strategies in French second language learning: An action research study

Abstract

Despite the extensive research conducted on second language (L2) learning over the years, there is no emerging distinct choice of L2 learning approach or strategy that single-handedly facilitates beginning second language learning. Research that seek to find out how beginning L2 learning is best facilitated could make language learning more effective and help retain students who drop-out. This investigation was undertaken as an action research study. It sought to investigate which L2 learning strategy, oral or writing, is a better introduction of French as a L2. Participants involved in the study were beginning students in an Oral class and in a Writing class. Language performance tests, attitude surveys, interview, and journals were used to collect data. The study involved qualitative, quantitative, and a case study. No significant difference was found between oral and writing strategy introduction of L2 French for beginners in reading, vocabulary, and composition. However, learners in the Oral class did slightly better than the Writing class in listening activities. Role-playing and interviewing were two distinct positive teaching approaches that emerged after the treatment.