MINISTRY OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING PHENIKAA UNIVERSITY A STUDY ON TECHNIQUES TO IMPROVE LISTENING SKILLS FOR SECOND-YEAR ENGLISH MAJORS AT PHENIKAA UNIVERSITY Nghiên cứu về các phương pháp nâng cao kỹ năng Nghe cho sinh viên năm thứ hai chuyên ngành Ngôn Ngữ Anh tại Trường Đại học Phenikaa Student: Nguyen Ba Bang Kieu Student ID: 19010275 Course: 2019 - 2023 Field: English Language Mode of study: Full-time Supervisor: M. Duong Thi Hong Thai Ha Noi - 2024 i ABSTRACT This study investigates the challenges and attitudes towards listening comprehension among English language learners. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating a questionnaire to gather quantitative data and focus group discussions to provide qualitative insights. The questionnaire explored various aspects of listening comprehension, including perceived difficulty, the impact of different factors, and students' suggestions for improvement.
The findings revealed that learners face significant difficulties with fast speech, unfamiliar vocabulary, colloquial language, and idioms. They also struggle with identifying context, understanding unfamiliar topics, and retaining information. Furthermore, anxiety and environmental factors like poor audio quality and background noise were identified as obstacles to listening comprehension. However, learners expressed a strong desire to improve their listening skills and offered valuable suggestions for enhancing instruction.
These suggestions focused on providing more explicit instruction and practice in various listening strategies, using a wider range of authentic materials, and creating a more supportive and engaging learning environment. The pedagogical implications of this study are significant. Teachers can utilize these findings to tailor their instruction to better address learners' needs and challenges. By incorporating the suggested strategies, educators can foster a more effective and enjoyable learning experience for students, ultimately enhancing their listening comprehension and overall language proficiency.
ii DECLARATION I, Nguyen Ba Bang Kieu – 19010275, certify that no part of the above report has been copied or reproduced by me from any other person’s work without acknowledgment and that the report was originally written by me under the strict guidance of my supervisor. Hanoi, June, 2024 Supervisor Student MA. Duong Thi Hong Thai Nguyen Ba Bang Kieu iii ACKNOWLEDGEMENT While objectivity is paramount in scientific writing, I cannot refrain from expressing my deepest gratitude for this particular study, as it aligns with the principles of integrity and respect. First and foremost, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to my family.
To my father, who epitomizes sacrifice and unwavering support, thank you for instilling in me the values of a true pillar of strength. To my mother, whose unconditional love embraces every facet of my being, words fail to express my gratitude for your boundless devotion and sacrifices. The depth of parental love is often compared to the vastness of the mountains and oceans, and I believe it's because no greater comparison exists. To my siblings, who stood by my parents during challenging times when I was too young to comprehend, thank you for your unwavering presence.
I am humbled by the legacy you have left behind, and I often feel undeserving of such blessings. You have been like second parents to me. In this thesis, I acknowledge the limitations of my English proficiency. I have dedicated many hours to enhancing my English skills, employing technology to refine my writing.
As a Language student, I recognize the need for continuous growth in knowledge, understanding, and expertise. These disadvantages inspire me to admire the dedication of my teachers, who have persevered despite past adversities. My deepest gratitude to M. Duong Thi Hong Thai, my supervisor, and to all the faculty members in the Faculty of English at Phenikaa University.
Officially, our cohort represents the 13th graduating class since the university's establishment as Thanh Tay University; however, in reality, we are among the first cohorts of Phenikaa University. I testified firsthand the challenges faced during the university's transition, particularly the unwavering support provided by our faculty. I see things beyond the A4s. I hold in high esteem the seasoned teachers, with years of iv dedication and expertise, who embody the very essence of educators, serving as beacons of inspiration for generations to come.
Without their guidance, I would not have reached this milestone. My gratitude extends to Kilobooks, Cyber Ads, and Karma Circle, the trilogy that shapes my foundational knowledge. Kilobooks provided me with the opportunity to immerse myself in a vast collection of literature and work-travel across Northern Vietnam, granting me profound insights into linguistic diversity and regional cultures, an immense privilege for a Language student. Cyber Ads, during my brief internship, deepened my understanding of human psychology, fueling my passion to delve into language theories and cognitive science, significantly contributing to the success of this thesis.
Finally, Karma Circle, a haven for those seeking solace, played a pivotal role in my emotional healing and re- alignment, enabling me to get back on track. Last but not least, I put off my hat to all my friends I have met during the University. Without all of you, my time five years in Ha Noi would mean nothing. With utmost sincerity, I thank you all.
v TABLE OF CONTENTS ABSTRACT. Rationale of the study. Aims and Objectives of the Study. Scope of the Study.
Significance of the Study. Methods of the Study. Design of the Study. 6 CHAPTER 1: LITERATURE REVIEW.
An Overview of Listening. Previous Studies and Definition of Listening Comprehension. Traditional Point of View. Present Point of View.
Importance of Listening Comprehension. Classification of Listening. Potential Problems in Learning Listening. Three stages of the Listening session.
Pre-listening Stage. While-listening Stage. Post-listening Stage. Previous Studies related to Listening skills.
19 CHAPTER 2: DATA COLLECTIONS AND ANALYSIS. Data collection procedures. Data analysis procedures. 23 vi CHAPTER 3: IMPLICATIONS.
Students’ background and attitudes towards Listening skills. Students’ purposes of learning English Listening Skills. Students’ perceptions towards the degree of difficulty of Listening skills. Students’ perceptions towards the importance of listening skills.
Time spent practicing listening English at home. Listening difficulties of second-year students English majors at Phenikaa University. Difficulties related to knowledge of language. Difficulties related to knowledge of discourse and language use.
Difficulties related to background knowledge. Difficulties related to emotion (anxiety and stress). Difficulties related to concentration. Difficulties related to the speed of the speaker(s).
Difficulties related to listening materials. Difficulties related to the lack of listening time in class. Difficulties related to the quality of listening recording. Difficulties related to background noises.
Techniques to improve listening skills for second-year English majors at Phenikaa University. Factors affecting Listening skills. Students’ suggested techniques for overcoming Listening difficulties. Techniques to improve Listening skills.
xii vii LIST OF TABLES Number Title of tables Page of tables Table 3.1 Students’ Learning English Listening Skills 26 Students’ perceptions towards the degree of difficulty of Table 3.2 27 Listening skills Students’ perceptions towards the importance of of listening Table 3.4: Time spent practicing listening English at home 28 Table 3.5 Difficulties related to knowledge of language 29 Table 3.6 Difficulties related to knowledge of discourse and language use 31 Table 3.7 Difficulties related to background knowledge 32 Table 3.8 Difficulties related to emotion (anxiety and stress) 32 Table 3.9 Difficulties related to concentration 34 Table 3.10 Difficulties related to the speed of the speaker(s) 34 Table 3.11 Difficulties related to listening materials 34 Table 3.12 Difficulties related to the lack of listening time in class 35 Table 3.13 Difficulties related to the quality of listening recording 35 Table 3.14 Difficulties related to background noises 36 Students’ suggestion of using activities that focus on the Table 3.15 51 content of the text in the pre-listening stage Students’ suggestion of letting students listen and use Table 3.16 information to achieve listening outcomes or products in the 53 while-listening stage viii Students’ suggestion of enabling students to make use of the Table 3.17 meaning we have derived from listening to the text or 56 participating in an integration ix LIST OF FIGURES Number of figures Title of figures Page Perceived Influence of Factors Figure 3.1 on English Listening 37 Skill Development Frequency of Suggested Figure 3.2 Solutions for Overcoming 39 Listening Difficulties 1 INTRODUCTION 1. Rationale of the study English, the world's most prevalent language, constitutes 70% of existing stored text. Its role as the international medium of communication in science, technology, education, and culture is undeniable. It serves as a key connector not only between Vietnam and the world but also globally, making it crucial for integration.
Consequently, the demand for English language teaching and learning is burgeoning worldwide, including in Vietnam. At the university level, English is considered a vital skill for students. Universities assess and invest in English training through entrance exams, ongoing coursework, and graduation requirements. Some specialized programs are taught entirely in English, and some universities even require English proficiency for admission.
Most university graduates are expected to achieve certain English proficiency standards, typically IELTS or TOEIC, to enhance their competitiveness and global integration. Among the diverse fields of study at universities, English language programs are particularly significant. Phenikaa University, a modern institution experiencing rapid growth, is meeting the increasing demand for high-quality English language professionals. With a well-structured curriculum, experienced faculty, modern facilities, and ample job opportunities, the English language program is a priority for the university.
Within the four core language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, listening is paramount. Listening is the first step in acquiring information, and the process of learning English also begins with this skill. Whether in academic or personal settings, listening is no longer just a passive act but a crucial soft skill for communication and connection. To strengthen this skill, various established 2 techniques can be integrated into teaching programs, workshops, and regular courses at the university.
As a final-year English language student at Phenikaa University, I wrote this graduate paper to explore techniques to enhance listening skills, titled "A study on Techniques to Improve Listening Skills for Second-year English majors at Phenikaa University." This study aims to address this pressing issue by investigating the attitudes and difficulties experienced by second-year English major students at Phenikaa University towards listening comprehension. By examining their perceptions of listening, identifying the specific obstacles they encounter, and exploring potential solutions, this research seeks to inform targeted interventions that can empower students to become more effective and independent listeners. By understanding the nuanced factors that influence students' attitudes and experiences with listening comprehension, this research will contribute to the development of more effective pedagogical practices and provide valuable insights for enhancing English listening skill instruction. Ultimately, this study aims to equip English major students with the necessary skills and strategies to become confident and proficient listeners, not only within the academic setting but also in their future professional and personal lives.
By fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to listening comprehension, this research has the potential to transform the way English is taught and learned in Vietnam. Aims and Objectives of the Study 3 2. Aims This study aims to investigate the attitudes of second-year English majors at Phenikaa University towards listening, identify the difficulties they encounter in listening comprehension, and suggest effective techniques to enhance their listening skills. Objectives The study sets out to examine the attitudes, perceptions, and self-directed learning practices of second-year English majors at Phenikaa University regarding listening comprehension.
It will identify and analyze the specific difficulties they face in both academic and real-world contexts, as well as investigate the influence of cognitive factors on their listening processes. Building upon these findings, the study will develop and propose practical techniques to improve listening comprehension and evaluate their effectiveness through a pilot study or classroom implementation 3. Research Questions What are the attitudes of second-year English majors at Phenikaa University toward listening skill? What are common listening difficulties of second-year English majors at Phenikaa University?