The Impacts of Cooperative Learning on Oral Proficiency

Abstract

This study explored whether applying cooperative learning approach brings about significant improvements in English
language learners' speaking proficiency. 40 male and female students enrolled in a speaking course at IELTS Center institute in
Mashhad, Iran, were assigned randomly to two control and experimental groups. The administration of an oral interview showed that two
groups were homogeneous in terms of their oral proficiency at the entry level. While both groups received instructions in speaking three
sessions per week for one month, CL activities were employed only in the experimental group. The performance of the experimental
group on oral interview (posttest) held at the end of the course showed that the mean score of this group was significantly higher than
the control group. Hence, CL approach can effectively be implemented to improve the learners' speaking proficiency.