An Investigation of Learners’ and Teachers’ Attitudes towards the Use of Cooperative Learning Method in EFL Speaking Classes

Abstract

The present study tends to investigate learners’ and teachers’ attitudes towards the use of cooperative learning method in English as a Foreign Language speaking classes. It is assumed that the majority of English teachers and learners hold positive attitudes towards the use of such method in the Oral Expression classes. This study was conducted with first year students following the descriptive method; the questionnaire and the teachers’ interview were used as the main data gathering tools in this study. The questionnaire was directed to seventy first year students out of 325, while the teachers’ interview was conducted with four Oral Expression teachers. The research findings have revealed that Oral Expression teachers have positive attitudes toward using such method in their classes. Although most of students face difficulties when speaking English, they have the sense of enjoyment whenever they are arranged to work together and hold positive attitudes towards the use of cooperative learning method. Based on the obtained results, some recommendations were presented