There are various strategies that can be used to improve communication skills in English. This paper aims to investigate differences in the use of oral communication strategies among Vietnamese non-English major undergraduates at two proficiency levels, elementary and intermediate, at the Creative Language Center, Ton Duc Thang University, Vietnam. A total of 120 students participated in the study. They completed a 58-item questionnaire adapted from Nakatani’s (2006) Oral Communication Strategy Inventory, focusing on speaking and listening skills. The findings indicate that, in speaking, intermediate students tend to employ social-affective strategies more frequently, while elementary students rely more on message abandonment strategies. In listening, intermediate students most frequently use word-oriented strategies, whereas elementary learners prefer negotiation for meaning. These differences suggest that learners adjust their communication approaches depending on their level of proficiency and experience. In addition, the results reflect how communication involves both cognitive processes and social interaction. Learners attempt to maintain conversations and achieve understanding despite linguistic limitations, showing a balance between strategic thinking and the natural human tendency to connect with others. The study provides practical insights for teachers and students in selecting appropriate communication strategies in learning English.

Authors:
Huyen Nhi Vo, Ton Duc Thang University, Vietnam
Huu Tai Nguyen, Ton Duc Thang University, Vietnam

About the Presenter(s)
Nguyen Huu Tai, General English Lecturer at Ton Duc Thang University; learner autonomy, motivation, TESOL, technology-mediated language learning; PhD candidate in Applied Linguistics, Mahidol University.

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/huyen-nhi-vo-87063b403

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