An innovative Approach to Understanding Oral Problems in Foreign Language Learning and Communication

Oral communication problems can be major challenges to effective foreign language learning and communication. Despite years spend developing their knowledge of vocabulary and structure, learners often experience frustration at not being able to participate effectively in second language (L2) communication. The goal of this paper is to bring together several lines of isolated research and provide a comprehensive overview of the various problems in L2/EFL (English as foreign language) oral communication. Using interpersonal communication theories and models, this paper distinguishes three main sources of oral communication difficulties: (a) communicators (speakers/hearers), (b) the process of creating meaning and responding to a message, (c) context and situation. This new approach offers a systematic framework to achieve a coherent process-oriented description and a deeper understanding of the complex and multidimensional nature of EFL oral interaction problems. This paper challenges the traditional approach to the learners" role in oral problems with a new approach and will help language teachers and researchers to become more aware of the other underlying causes and processes contributing to problems in EFL communication.