THE INFLUENCES OF THE FIRST LANGUAGE ON ENGLISH-MAJORED FRESHMEN’ SPEAKING SKILL, CASE STUDY AT THE INDUSTRIAL UNIVERSITY OF HO CHI MINH CITY.

Abstract

In the fast-changing environment of global education, English language skills have become pivotal to most students at higher education institutions, including the Industrial University of Ho Chi Minh City (IUH). However, while the mother tongue tends to be overused in the speaking class setting by IUH’s first-year English language students, the students rely excessively on translation strategies, which restrains the former’s speaking confidence and fluency. The primary goal of the present study includes exploration and analysis of the factors contributing to and influencing mother tongue usage and the development of IUH-specific recommendations to address these challenges. Using quantitative research method through questionnaire, the research emphasizes the prominent reasons for source language overreliance, as well as the necessity for mandating target language primarily. The results of the study demonstrate the significance of communication and support the interactive task-based innovation in English language instruction. Additionally, the study presents the impact of teachers on the classroom environment and their views regarding English education in Vietnam. The students’ reflection includes the significance of English in global integration and advice on steps, including reducing excessive mother tongue usage. Furthermore, this research presents a new perspective on the development of the English-speaking ability of IUH freshmen and helpful recommendations for educators.