Extramural English and Vietnamese EFL primary school students’ listening and reading proficiency in Vietnam

Abstract

Many studies worldwide have found correlations between students’ exposure to English outside the classroom and students’ English vocabulary and oral proficiency. However, these studies have mostly been conducted with ESL (English as a Second Language) high school students or older students, while primary school students in EFL (English as a Foreign Language) countries have not been well documented. The study aimed to (1) investigate whether there are any correlations between Extramural English (EE) and listening and reading proficiency of Vietnamese EFL primary school students, and (2) determine their experience with EE. The participants were 101 Vietnamese elementary school students. Both interviews and questionnaires were used to collect information regarding students’ extramural English outside of the classroom and their experiences in EE activities. An English proficiency test, including listening and reading, was employed to examine students’ listening and reading. Findings showed that there was a correlation between extramural English and EFL primary students’ listening and reading proficiency. Most students participated in two main EE activities: using English game-based learning applications and surfing the Internet. The study suggested different techniques, some online games, and materials to support learners in acquiring a new language actively, and teachers could encourage more students to practice extramural English outside the classroom.