04051002006 tính hiệu quả của phương pháp tắm ngôn ngữ trong việc nâng cao kỹ năng nghe có chủ Đích của học sinh 5 tuổi tại một trung tâm tiếng anh Ở hải phòng
INTRODUCTION
Rationale for the research
This research thesis, titled "Enhancing Active Listening Skills in 5-Year-Old Students at an English Center in Hai Phong through the Immersion Language Learning Method," is based on a comprehensive rationale that integrates both theoretical foundations and practical needs It emphasizes the importance of developing effective listening skills in young learners to support their language acquisition The study aims to demonstrate how the immersion method can significantly improve active listening abilities among preschool children, addressing the growing demand for more engaging and effective English learning strategies in early childhood education.
Early language learning is critically important in the modern world, leveraging young children's natural ability to acquire languages and providing cognitive benefits, as emphasized by Smith and Jones (2015) The developmental stage of early childhood is vital for language development, especially in regions like Hai Phong, Vietnam, where increasing demand for English proficiency calls for effective pedagogical strategies Local research by Nguyen et al (2016) highlights specific challenges faced by young learners in Hai Phong, particularly in developing active listening skills in English language classrooms, underscoring the need for targeted approaches to enhance language acquisition at this crucial stage.
Supporting immersion language learning as a promising approach to language acquisition is backed by international research, including Anderson et al (2017) Their findings demonstrate the method's potential to accelerate language learning and improve active listening skills, highlighting its effectiveness This approach aligns seamlessly with the theoretical foundations of this study, emphasizing immersive experiences as a key factor in successful language acquisition.
The unique educational environment in Hai Phong, shaped by local culture, resources, and infrastructure, adds complexity to language learning research Local language centers’ enthusiasm for adopting effective teaching methods serves as a key catalyst, enabling the study to generate practical, applicable insights for improving language education Beyond pedagogical benefits, this research aims to influence regional educational policies and practices, supporting economic growth and community development in Hai Phong.
This study uniquely combines theoretical insights with practical applications to enhance language education and early childhood development It aims to provide tangible benefits for local learners and positively impact the broader community By bridging research and practice, the research contributes valuable knowledge to support effective learning strategies in early childhood Ultimately, this approach promises to foster better educational outcomes and community growth through evidence-based interventions.
Aims of the study
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the immersion language learning approach in improving active listening skills among 5-year-old students enrolled at an English center in Hai Phong The research focuses on how immersive techniques can enhance young learners' listening comprehension and overall language development By analyzing the impact of immersion methods, the study seeks to provide insights into effective strategies for early childhood English education The findings will contribute to understanding the benefits of immersive language learning for preschoolers in Hai Phong and similar educational settings.
Research questions
In this thesis, the researcher investigated the effectiveness of the immersion language learning method in enhancing the active listening skills of
This study focuses on 5-year-old students attending an English center in Hai Phong, aiming to explore the impact of early language education on young children's development To achieve this overarching goal, the researcher established two specific objectives that provide a systematic framework for investigation These objectives guide the examination of how early English learning influences various aspects of early childhood development, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between language education and young learners' growth.
1) To what extent does the application of immersion language learning enhance active listening skills for 5-year-old students at an English Center in Hai Phong?
2) What are the attitudes of these students toward applying immersion language learning to improve their listening skills?
These research questions form the core of the investigation, guiding the researcher through a comprehensive study of the immersion language learning method's impact on intentional listening skills in young learners.
Scope of the study
This thesis examines the effectiveness of the immersion language learning method in enhancing intentional listening skills among 5-year-old students at an English center in Hai Phong It explores the various dimensions of immersion strategies and their impact on young learners' listening abilities The study focuses on how immersive environment techniques can significantly improve children's active listening skills in early childhood language education Key factors analyzed include the implementation of immersion methods and their influence on student engagement and language acquisition at a prominent English center in Hai Phong.
This study focuses on 5-year-old students at an English center in Hai Phong, highlighting their active engagement in immersion language learning As a key demographic in early language acquisition, these young learners provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the proposed teaching method Their participation is essential for understanding how immersion strategies impact language development in young children.
Hai Phong, a vibrant city in Northern Vietnam, is the focal point of this study due to its unique cultural and educational landscape The city's distinctive context significantly influences the effectiveness of immersion language learning methods Understanding Hai Phong's cultural background and educational environment is essential for assessing how these factors shape language acquisition outcomes in this region.
This research explores the language learning programs implemented at the English center, focusing on curriculum design, innovative teaching methodologies, and support structures that promote intentional listening skills By analyzing these programs, the study aims to identify key programmatic elements that significantly enhance language acquisition among young learners Emphasizing an immersion language learning approach, the research seeks to establish correlations between program features and improved listening comprehension, ultimately facilitating more effective English language mastery.
This study focuses on a specific timeframe to examine the short-term and potential long-term effects of immersion language learning on active listening skills The chosen duration enables a nuanced understanding of how this method influences language development within a defined period, highlighting its impact on learners' listening abilities over time.
This study offers a comprehensive exploration of the effectiveness of the immersion language learning method in fostering intentional listening skills among 5-year-old students at an English center in Hai Phong By considering relevant factors, a holistic view is achieved, highlighting the impact of immersion on young learners' language development The research underscores how immersive environments support the development of deliberate listening abilities in early childhood education Overall, the findings demonstrate the significance of integrating immersive techniques to enhance listening skills in young English learners.
Method of the study
This study employed primary research methods such as action research, pre-tests, post-tests, and survey questionnaires to effectively gather data These tools were carefully selected to align with the study’s objectives and to thoroughly address the research questions, ensuring comprehensive and reliable results.
Action research played a crucial role in the methodology by offering a structured framework for implementing immersion language learning and collecting data The process included a pre-test assessment to evaluate students' initial skills, followed by the introduction of immersion language techniques, and concluded with a post-test assessment to measure progress This systematic approach enabled a comparative analysis of students' active listening skills before and after the immersion intervention, highlighting its effectiveness in language acquisition.
Pre-tests and post-tests were administered to 5-year-old students to quantitatively assess the impact of immersion language learning These assessments measured students' listening skills, enabling a statistical comparison of performance before and after the program Analysis of mean scores and significance levels demonstrated the effectiveness of the immersion method in enhancing active listening skills, providing valuable data on its educational benefits.
Survey questionnaires using a Likert scale were distributed to understand students' attitudes toward immersion language learning, capturing their perceptions, preferences, and experiences The data collected provided valuable insights into how immersion methods influence students’ active listening skills This comprehensive understanding helps educators tailor immersion strategies to enhance language acquisition effectively.
This study employed comprehensive research methods to thoroughly evaluate the effectiveness of the immersion language learning approach The primary focus was on its impact on 5-year-old students' active listening skills at an English center in Hai Phong The findings highlight how immersive teaching methods significantly enhance young learners' ability to listen actively, demonstrating their potential for improving early childhood language acquisition.
Organization of the thesis
The thesis will be organized into 5 chapters to comprehensively address the study's objectives and findings
Chapter One introduces the study by outlining its background, objectives, and scope, establishing the foundation for the research It details the key research questions and explains the significance of the study, highlighting its importance within the field Additionally, this chapter describes the research design, providing readers with a clear understanding of the methodology employed to achieve the study's aims.
• Chapter two will encompass the literature review, outlining the theoretical framework and relevant prior studies in the field of immersion language learning and active listening skills development
Chapter three will explore the research methodology, offering a detailed account of the methods used for data collection and analysis to address the research questions
• Chapter four will be dedicated to presenting the data analysis and findings, highlighting the outcomes derived from the study
Chapter five provides a comprehensive summary of the study, highlighting key findings on how immersion language learning impacts the active listening skills of 5-year-old students at an English center in Hai Phong The concluding remarks discuss the significance of the results and their implications for language education The chapter also addresses the study's limitations and offers thoughtful recommendations for future research to further investigate the effects of immersion methods on young children's listening development.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Review of relevant concepts
Active listening is a vital communication skill that goes beyond simply hearing, involving full, attentive engagement with the speaker It encompasses understanding the conveyed message and responding with empathy and clarity This skill is especially important in educational settings, where it significantly influences young learners' language development and overall growth Exploring its nuanced definition and practical applications highlights the importance of active listening in fostering effective communication and supporting educational success.
Active listening involves effectively receiving, interpreting, and responding to both spoken and non-verbal messages from a speaker Its primary goal is to understand the message while establishing a meaningful connection with the speaker’s thoughts, feelings, and perspectives Masterson (2018) emphasizes that true active listening enhances communication by fostering empathy and mutual understanding Practicing active listening can improve relationships, reduce misunderstandings, and create a more supportive environment in personal and professional settings.
Effective active listening goes beyond simply recognizing words; it involves focused attention on the speaker's words, body language, tone, and emotions The richness of this skill is demonstrated through both verbal and non-verbal feedback, including asking clarifying questions and acknowledging the speaker's message without judgment Developing active listening enhances communication, fosters understanding, and builds stronger relationships, making it a vital skill in personal and professional interactions (Rogers & Farson, 2019).
In educational settings, especially for 5-year-old students learning a second language through immersion, active listening is crucial for effective language development During this formative phase, young learners' cognitive, linguistic, and emotional growth are closely linked to their listening skills (Sarantakos, 2020) Immersion language learning provides a powerful environment for fostering active listening, as students are consistently exposed to the target language, enhancing their comprehension and communication abilities.
This research focuses on the impact of immersion language learning on the active listening skills of 5-year-old students at an English center in Hai Phong Active listening is crucial for effective language acquisition, and this study highlights its vital role in early childhood language development By analyzing how immersion methods can serve as a catalyst for improving active listening, the research aims to uncover the positive effects of immersive learning environments on young learners Drawing insights from previous studies, the study seeks to determine the extent to which immersion enhances active listening skills among preschool children, emphasizing its importance for successful language development.
Active listening is a crucial skill that underpins successful language acquisition in young learners This research explores the intricate effects of immersion language programs on developing effective listening skills, emphasizing their importance in enhancing overall language proficiency.
Active listening skills serve as a crucial theoretical foundation that guides effective communication and learning Emphasizing the importance of nurturing active listening in education enhances student engagement and comprehension Developing these skills not only strengthens the educational process but also significantly contributes to the advancement of language teaching practices within the relevant context.
2.1.1.2 Active listening in early childhood
Understanding active listening skills in early childhood is essential for effective language acquisition and cognitive development Research highlights how children perceive and respond to auditory stimuli, particularly language, serving as a critical foundation for immersion language learning methods Exploring the application of immersion strategies for 5-year-olds in Hai Phong reveals that strong active listening skills are integral to successful language development in young learners.
Active listening skills in early childhood are essential for young children to effectively receive, process, and interpret auditory information, which plays a crucial role in their language development, comprehension, and communication skills These skills serve as a foundation for successful social interactions and academic success, highlighting the importance of nurturing active listening from an early age The theoretical basis for understanding active listening in children is supported by numerous studies that emphasize its impact on cognitive and linguistic growth Developing strong active listening abilities in early childhood sets the stage for lifelong learning and effective communication skills.
Bakermans-Kranenburg and van IJzendoorn (2013) conducted an extensive review and meta-analysis on the role of oxytocin in behavior and cognition, shedding light on its influence on neurobiological factors that affect cognitive development, including listening skills Their research highlights the significant connection between oxytocin and social and cognitive processes, emphasizing its importance in understanding neurobiological influences on listening and communication.
Bialystok and Barac (2012) explored the cognitive benefits of emerging bilingualism, emphasizing metalinguistic awareness and executive control, crucial components for active listening This perspective is particularly relevant
10 in the context of immersion language learning, which often involves exposure to two languages
Vouloumanos and Werker (2007) highlight that neonates are naturally inclined toward speech sounds, indicating an innate predisposition to language Their research suggests that even in early development, infants are inherently receptive to listening to language, supporting the idea that immersive language learning can effectively harness this natural ability This understanding underscores the importance of exposing infants to rich linguistic environments to promote early language acquisition.
Kuhl (2004) emphasizes the critical influence of the environment, caregivers, and auditory experiences in early language acquisition These factors are essential in shaping language development and are directly relevant to understanding how immersion language learning environments enhance active listening skills Creating rich, interactive auditory settings can significantly improve learners' ability to understand and use language effectively.
Levick and Lundy (2003) highlight the critical importance of early literacy development in pre-kindergarten children, emphasizing how they construct meaning through active listening and decoding language Their research underscores the strong connection between meaning-making, language decoding, and early literacy skills, which are essential for fostering lifelong learning Supporting early literacy through interactive listening and language decoding lays a strong foundation for children's overall academic success and cognitive development.
Active listening plays a vital role in early childhood development, particularly in language acquisition, cognitive growth, and literacy skills Understanding the importance of active listening is essential for studying effective language learning strategies This foundational knowledge supports our research on how immersion language programs influence active listening abilities among 5-year-old students at an English Center in Hai Phong.
Grounding our research in solid theoretical foundations allows us to contribute valuable practical insights and empirical evidence specific to early childhood language development This approach bridges the gap between theory and practice, enhancing the understanding of immersion language learning methodologies By integrating these concepts, our study offers meaningful advancements in both academic knowledge and educational applications, supporting effective language acquisition strategies for young children.
Review of the previous studies and their research gap
Our research focuses on enhancing active listening skills in 5-year-old students through the immersion language learning method By conducting a thorough review of both international and Vietnamese literature, we identify critical research gaps and deepen our understanding of the existing knowledge landscape This comprehensive analysis lays a strong foundation for our study, ensuring it addresses key issues in early language development and effective listening skills.
International research highlights key factors vital to our theoretical framework, emphasizing the cognitive benefits of early language exposure as outlined by Gardner (2018), which are essential for understanding young children's language development Brown and Smith (2019) support the importance of immersion language learning in accelerating acquisition and improving active listening skills in young learners Anderson et al (2020) provide empirical evidence on how immersion enhances listening abilities, reinforcing the significance of this approach Thomas and Wilson (2022) clarify the theoretical foundations of early childhood language learning, particularly focusing on the development of intentional listening skills Additionally, Wang et al (2018) offer valuable insights into pedagogical strategies for improving listening skills, relevant to our study's objectives in the digital education landscape.
(2022) evaluates the role of technology in early language learning, presenting potential implications for our digitally interconnected study
In the context of Vietnamese studies, critical insights reveal the unique challenges faced by young Vietnamese students, shaping the framework of ongoing research According to Nguyen (2019), these students encounter specific obstacles that impact their educational experiences and personal development Understanding these challenges is essential for developing effective support strategies and fostering academic success among Vietnamese youth.
This study highlights the importance of understanding localized trends in English language learning in Hai Phong, as emphasized by Le (2021), who provides insights into the specific challenges faced in the region Vu's (2018) research on the influence of cultural nuances on language acquisition in Northern Vietnam underscores the significant role cultural context plays in learner engagement The function of language centers, as detailed by Tran (2020), aligns with our focus on the local educational infrastructure supporting language learning Additionally, Pham et al (2019) offer comprehensive data on early childhood language education for 5-year-olds, informing our approach to young learners Dinh et al (2021) contribute valuable pedagogical strategies tailored to early language development, which we incorporate into our methodology Insights from Mai (2019) on bilingualism among Vietnamese students enrich our understanding of code-switching and language proficiency Lastly, Truong's (2022) examination of educational policies in Hai Phong provides the institutional context essential for contextualizing our research within the region’s policy framework.
Our study addresses a significant research gap by focusing on the effectiveness of the immersion method in developing intentional listening skills among 5-year-olds in Hai Phong, an area underexplored in existing literature While previous research provides valuable theoretical insights, there is a lack of localized data relevant to Hai Phong’s educational context, highlighting the need for empirical evidence tailored to this region This research not only enhances understanding of language acquisition and pedagogical strategies but also offers immediate practical implications for improving early childhood education in Hai Phong The subsequent sections will integrate theoretical frameworks, instructional content, and practical recommendations aligned with our research questions to support effective language development.
This chapter reviews existing literature on developing active listening skills in 5-year-old students, highlighting the role of immersion language learning and key factors influencing early childhood listening comprehension It also examines young learners' attitudes toward language learning and identifies gaps in the current research These insights emphasize the significance of the study's research questions and provide a foundation for the upcoming chapter on research methodology.
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY
Restatement of research questions
This research investigates whether the immersion language learning method can improve active listening skills among 5-year-old students at an English Center in Hai Phong The study aims to determine the effectiveness of immersive techniques in developing young children's listening abilities By exploring this, the researcher seeks to provide insights into how immersion approaches can enhance language acquisition in early childhood education The findings will contribute to optimizing teaching strategies for young learners in English language centers.
1) To what extent does the application of immersion language learning enhance active listening skills for 5-year-old students at an English Center in Hai Phong?
2) What are the attitudes of these students toward applying immersion language learning to improve their listening skills?
Research approach
This study utilized a participatory action research design to effectively enhance active listening skills in 5-year-old students Sixty participants engaged in two iterative instructional cycles, focusing on teaching reading lessons through the Immersion Language Learning Method (IMLL) The research actively involved participants in all stages, ensuring a dynamic and collaborative approach to improving early childhood language acquisition This method underscores the effectiveness of immersive teaching techniques in developing foundational listening skills in young learners.
This research examined the effectiveness of the IMLL approach, where participants received structured instruction over eight weeks The primary goal was to immerse students in the English language through this innovative teaching method By implementing IMLL as the core strategy, the study aimed to enhance students' language proficiency and engagement in a comprehensive and systematic manner.
24 enhance their active listening abilities through exposure to spoken language in a natural context
To evaluate the effectiveness of the IMLL intervention, a listening test was administered both before and after implementation, enabling a clear comparison of participants' listening skills An attitude scale was also used to assess students’ perceptions and feelings toward the IMLL approach, providing valuable insights into their perspectives Understanding students' attitudes is essential for a comprehensive evaluation of the method’s overall impact and success.
This study adopts an action research approach due to its participatory nature and effectiveness in addressing real-world educational challenges It offers a comprehensive framework for data collection while actively engaging participants in the research process This methodology has been instrumental in providing a holistic understanding of the research problem and its practical implications within the context of language education.
It is essential to understand the fundamental concepts, guiding principles, and various models of action research to effectively comprehend its core framework These elements are crucial for grasping how this research approach aligns with and supports the study's objectives By examining these foundational aspects, researchers can better appreciate the contribution of action research to meaningful and impactful investigation.
3.2.1 Definition of an action research
Action research is an iterative, participatory approach that integrates systematic inquiry with practical action to solve real-world problems within specific contexts This flexible methodology emphasizes collaboration between researchers and practitioners, fostering a co-creative process involving those directly impacted by the issue By encouraging responsiveness and adaptability, action research effectively addresses complex challenges through active stakeholder involvement.
Problem-solving is a crucial approach that bridges theoretical insights and practical solutions, emphasizing a cyclical process of research, action, and reflection This iterative method enables continuous improvement and learning, with each stage informing the next to develop effective, evidence-based outcomes (Stringer, 2014; Kemmis, McTaggart, & Nixon, 2014).
This study highlights the crucial role of action research as a bridge between theory and practice in improving active listening skills among 5-year-old students at an English center in Hai Phong As a dynamic and participatory approach, it actively involved teachers, parents, and students, fostering a collaborative environment for development By applying action research, the study advanced understanding of intentional listening skill development while directly impacting classroom practices and educational strategies Rooted in the belief that action research is transformative, this methodology significantly contributed to developing effective language teaching methods and enhancing the educational landscape at the Hai Phong English center.
3.2.2 Principles of an action research
The principles of action research underpin the methodology by emphasizing collaboration, reflection, and practical implementation Collaboration is vital for involving diverse stakeholders, ensuring multiple perspectives and expertise inform the research process Reflection encourages continuous assessment and learning throughout the research journey, fostering deeper insights The core principle of action focuses on applying research findings to achieve positive, transformative changes that promote improvement, development, and innovation in practice (McNiff, 2013; Stringer, 2007).
This study underscores the importance of action research principles, with collaboration among educators, students, and parents serving as the foundation for improving active listening skills Engaging all stakeholders ensures that practical insights guide targeted strategies, making the approach both effective and participatory Reflection plays a vital role, fostering continuous assessment and learning to refine teaching methods and strategies By implementing research-driven changes, the study aims to enhance the active listening abilities of 5-year-old students, aligning closely with the core principles of action research.
3.2.3 Models of an action research
In action research, various models provide structured frameworks to guide practitioners in solving real-world problems effectively Selecting the most suitable model requires careful consideration of options like those proposed by Schửn (1983), Kemmis and McTaggart (1988), and Carr and Kemmis (1983), each offering unique features and benefits.
Schrün's Reflective Model (1983) provides a foundational framework for developing reflective practice by encouraging practitioners to engage in critical self-reflection and continuous improvement This model is particularly effective in educational settings, emphasizing the importance of reflection in enhancing problem-solving and decision-making skills By fostering ongoing self-assessment, it supports professional growth and improves teaching effectiveness.
Kemmis and McTaggart's Action Research Model (1988) is a cyclical process that emphasizes collaboration and collective problem-solving This model is especially valuable in educational and community settings, where active involvement from multiple stakeholders is essential for effective change By focusing on continuous cycles of planning, action, and reflection, the approach promotes participatory problem-solving and sustainable solutions.
Carr and Kemmis' Model of Action Research (1983) introduced the concept of critical and practical inquiry, highlighting the importance of examining and challenging existing practices This approach emphasizes the need to develop actionable solutions while critically analyzing current systems The model aligns with the core principles of action research, focusing on addressing real-world practical issues through reflective and collaborative inquiry.
Based on a thorough review of various models, the Burns (2010) model was identified as the most appropriate for this study due to its clear and structured four-stage process of Planning, Action, Observation, and Reflection This model aligns well with the research objectives and the goal of improving intentional listening skills among five-year-old students at an English center in Hai Phong Its practicality and clarity provide an effective framework for addressing research questions and attaining desired outcomes.
Figure 3.1 The 4-Stage Action Research Cycle by Burns (2010)
Figure 3.2 The Two Cycles Kemmis Classroom Action Research Spiral
Context of the study
This study focused on a specialized English learning program tailored for 5-year-old students at an English center in Hai Phong The program was carefully designed to foster a nurturing and interactive environment, effectively meeting the unique needs of young learners Emphasizing engaging teaching methods, the curriculum aimed to promote active participation and early language development among preschool children.
The English curriculum for 5-year-olds was designed to be engaging and age-appropriate, aligning with their cognitive development to facilitate a holistic language learning experience It emphasizes the integration of all language skills, with a special focus on developing active listening abilities The program incorporates a variety of carefully selected, age-appropriate materials—including storybooks, songs, games, and interactive activities—that capture young learners’ attention and stimulate their curiosity.
The English center's teaching staff includes experienced, certified instructors specializing in early childhood education and language development These skilled teachers create a supportive and encouraging environment that effectively promotes language acquisition in young children.
The center's English learning program for 5-year-old students was carefully aligned with their developmental stage, emphasizing foundational language skills essential at this age Designed to provide an enriching and engaging learning experience, the program aimed to equip young learners with core English language competencies while nurturing a love for languages Spanning two semesters of 12 weeks each, the curriculum focused on age-appropriate, interactive activities that foster both language development and a positive attitude toward learning.
33 appropriate themes and topics, creating an enjoyable and interactive learning experience for the students
Table 3.1 The program's curriculum for 5 years old students
1 My Family Family members, basic greetings
2 My Home Parts of the house, furniture
3 My School School items, classroom language
4 Food and Drinks Food items, likes and dislikes
5 At the Zoo Animals, animal sounds
6 Let's Play Toys, playtime activities
7 On the Farm Farm animals, farming vocabulary
9 Under the Sea Ocean animals, sea creatures
10 Transportation Vehicles, modes of transportation
12 Space Adventure Planets, stars, space exploration
This program offers an enriching English language learning experience tailored for young students, emphasizing the development of active listening skills in a supportive and engaging environment By focusing on meaningful themes and topics, the program captures students' interest and enhances their language acquisition, making learning both effective and enjoyable.
This English learning program was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of immersion language learning in improving the listening skills of 5-year-old students The program provided an ideal environment to implement and assess this approach, aligning with the developmental needs of young learners Results indicated that immersion methods significantly enhance deliberate listening abilities in early childhood education.
Participants
The study focused on 30 five-year-old students attending an English center in Hai Phong City, representing diverse family backgrounds Most students engaged with English primarily through their academic curriculum, with limited exposure outside school Their English proficiency levels were relatively similar due to comparable learning experiences, though some had early English instruction Despite this, all students needed additional support to improve their active listening skills, especially in understanding English language materials.
Data collection instruments
This study investigates the impact of the immersion language learning method on the active listening skills of 5-year-old students at an English center in Hai Phong To achieve accurate and comprehensive results, the researcher utilized carefully selected data collection instruments, including pre-tests, post-tests, and questionnaires These tools were designed to measure the development of active listening skills and provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of the immersion approach in young language learners.
3.5.1 Pre-test and Post- test
The study used carefully designed pre-test and post-test assessments tailored to students' developmental stages to evaluate the effectiveness of the action research intervention These assessments aimed to quantitatively measure students' intentional listening skills before and after the research cycles An analysis of the assessments' structure—covering their content, format, and administration methods—was conducted to ensure a comprehensive understanding of their reliability and rigor By presenting a holistic view of these evaluation tools, the research methodology demonstrated a strong foundation for accurately assessing the intervention's impact.
The pre-test and post-test aimed to quantitatively assess the intentional listening skills of 5-year-old students before and after the intervention This evaluation was essential to determine the effectiveness of the action research, highlighting any improvements in students' listening abilities resulting from the program.
Using different content in the pre-test and post-test, while maintaining the same difficulty level, was essential to ensure assessment validity and reliability in an educational setting This approach helped eliminate practice effects and test-retest biases, ensuring the post-test accurately reflected participants' true learning and skill development Introducing novel content reduced the likelihood of participants recalling specific items from the pre-test, leading to a more precise evaluation of their knowledge Additionally, varying test content promoted a broader understanding of the subject matter, supported the generalization of learned concepts, and offered a comprehensive view of overall performance.
36 boredom, fatigue, and enhanced the learning experience, making the assessment process both rigorous and educational
This assessment incorporated age-appropriate listening comprehension exercises, including listening to short stories, songs, and simple instructions, to accurately gauge student understanding Question sets were developed to measure students' recall and comprehension of audio stimuli, ensuring a clear evaluation of their listening skills A standardized scoring rubric was implemented to assess responses consistently across both pre-tests and post-tests, ensuring reliable performance measurement The test forms, featuring listening exercises, question sets, and answer spaces, were meticulously designed to facilitate accurate assessment and data collection.
The assessment process included a pre-test administered before the action research intervention to establish a baseline of students' intentional listening skills After completing the intervention cycles, a post-test was conducted with the same group, allowing for a comparison to measure any improvements in listening skills This approach effectively evaluates the impact of the intervention on students' listening abilities.
To evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention, a predetermined scoring rubric was used to assess students' performance on both the pre-test and post-test The results were analyzed with appropriate statistical methods to identify significant improvements in intentional listening skills among 5-year-old students This comprehensive evaluation ensured a robust understanding of the impact of the action research on developing young learners' listening skills.
The procedure of conduct the tests was followed:
Before initiating the action research intervention, a listening test was administered to a group of 5-year-old students to establish a baseline measurement of their listening skills This pre-test provided valuable data on their initial listening abilities, serving as a reference point for evaluating the effectiveness of the subsequent intervention.
Action Research Cycles: Implemented the action research intervention, which may have included the application of the immersion language learning method to enhance intentional listening skills
Post-Test (After the Action Research Intervention): After completing the action research cycles, administered the same listening test to the same group of students as a post-test
Questionnaires are essential tools in second language research, providing valuable insights into learner attitudes In this study, they played a crucial role in evaluating the perspectives of 5-year-old students regarding the immersion language learning method Specifically, the questionnaires helped assess how this approach influences their active listening skills, highlighting its effectiveness in early language acquisition.
In second language studies, questionnaires are widely recognized as reliable and valid research tools (Dörnyei, 2007) These text-based instruments consist of structured questions and statements designed to gather participant responses, which can be collected through methods such as paper or online marking, numerical ratings, or checkbox selections (Brown).
2001) These instruments were cherished for their quantifiability, affordability, and ease of completion (Vanderstoep & Johnston, 2009; Mills, 2014)
In this research, questionnaires were chosen as the primary data collection tool due to their ability to facilitate structured and standardized data gathering This approach ensured accurate insights into the attitudes of 5-year-old students towards immersion language learning, making questionnaires an effective method for capturing young participants' perceptions reliably.
This research questionnaire aims to assess students' perceived improvements in active listening skills and their attitudes toward the effectiveness of immersion language learning Comprising 10 questions, it utilizes a Likert scale from "strongly agree" to "strongly disagree" to gather responses To enhance accessibility and engagement, a smiling face symbol was incorporated alongside the Likert scale, making the response process clearer and more student-friendly (see Appendix 3).
When working with 5-year-old students who are still developing their reading and writing skills, it’s essential to use an interactive and hands-on approach when administering questionnaires This method ensures young children can understand and engage with the questions effectively, making the process more enjoyable and accurate Incorporating visual aids, oral questions, and tangible activities helps gather reliable responses from early learners, supporting both their developmental stage and data collection needs.
Teacher-Researcher Collaboration: The teacher and the researcher worked closely together to facilitate the questionnaire process Given the
39 young age of the participants, it was crucial to have both an authoritative figure and the researcher present
To enhance comprehension, each questionnaire question was complemented with visual aids, such as relevant images or drawings illustrating the answer options For instance, smiley faces depicting various expressions were used to represent different points on the Likert scale, ensuring students easily understood the questions and response choices.
The teacher and researcher provided clear verbal explanations of each question using simple, age-appropriate language to ensure students fully understood the concepts before proceeding, facilitating effective learning and comprehension.
Data collection procedures
After defining a clear research goal and plan, the researcher engaged with the English center’s management team to secure essential permissions for the study Presenting a detailed outline of the research objectives was crucial to ensure that management understood the study’s purpose and scope This strategic communication facilitated smooth coordination and set a solid foundation for successful research execution.
After securing the necessary approvals, the study began by selecting 30 enthusiastic 5-year-old students to participate The researcher then administered a pre-test to evaluate their initial listening skills, with all students independently completing the assessment under instructor supervision Conducted in the first week of the study, this pre-test provided essential baseline data to measure future progress.
This study introduced the Immersion Language Learning Method (IMLL) into students' education for eight consecutive weeks, with careful observation and detailed record-keeping The primary focus was to assess how IMLL impacts the enhancement of students' active listening skills, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving language comprehension through immersive learning techniques.
Following the eight-week intervention, a post-test was conducted to assess improvements in students' active listening skills The progress made during the IMLL program was carefully monitored and documented, providing essential data for thorough analysis.
This phase of the study focused on assessing 5-year-old students' attitudes and experiences with the IMLL approach through a carefully designed questionnaire The participants were provided with a structured survey to gather valuable insights into their perceptions and engagement Each student received a generous allocation of the questionnaire, ensuring comprehensive data collection to evaluate the effectiveness of the IMLL method.
The 20-minute completion time for the questionnaire is thoughtfully designed to align with young learners' cognitive capacities This timeframe allows teachers sufficient opportunity to provide support, clarify any student queries, and ensure understanding of the questions It also fosters an engaging environment that encourages thoughtful responses, enhancing the overall effectiveness of the assessment.
To support 5-year-old students in developing their reading and writing skills in both Vietnamese and English, the researcher used a thoughtful approach to facilitate their engagement with the questionnaire The questionnaire was read aloud in English at a slow pace to ensure comprehension, followed by careful translation into Vietnamese This method allowed young learners to comfortably respond, either by ticking or providing answers, promoting effective assessment of their language skills.
The collected data was meticulously sorted, classified, and analyzed to ensure accuracy This rigorous process enabled the researcher to draw meaningful conclusions about the impact of the Immersion Language Learning Method The study revealed significant improvements in active listening skills among 5-year-old students at an English center in Hai Phong, highlighting the effectiveness of immersive language instruction for young learners.
Data analysis methods
The researcher employed targeted research tools, including pre-tests, post-tests, and survey questionnaires, to collect essential data for the study These instruments were vital in gathering accurate information, enabling the formulation of meaningful and reliable conclusions.
To evaluate the progression of students' active listening skills, the researcher used SPSS v.20 software for data analysis, focusing on descriptive statistics The mean was employed as a key measure of central tendency, representing the average score by summing individual scores and dividing by the total number of data points, thus providing insight into overall performance Additionally, the impact of the Immersion Language Learning Method (IMLL) on English reading skills was assessed through the calculation of p-values, which determined the statistical significance of the observed differences.
In statistical analysis, the p-value indicates the probability of observing a specific data set under the null hypothesis assumption Smaller p-values suggest a higher likelihood of rejecting the null hypothesis, providing evidence against it Researchers adjust alpha levels, which represent confidence levels, based on their discretion to determine the significance threshold for hypothesis testing.
The survey questionnaire utilized a five-point Likert scale, allowing students to accurately express their attitudes and experiences with the IMLL method, ranging from 'Strongly Agree' to 'Strongly Disagree.' SPSS software was used to analyze the collected data, providing valuable insights into students’ perceptions of the IMLL approach and its impact on enhancing their active listening skills The research results were presented in a clear and accessible format, featuring tables and figures to effectively illustrate the key findings.
Summary
Chapter 3 examined the methodology employed in this research endeavor It commenced by elucidating the research design and its alignment with the action research framework, emphasizing its applicability in a real educational context The participants, a crucial component of the study, were introduced This chapter underscored the importance of 5-year-old students in the English Center in Hai Phong, elaborating on their unique characteristics and requirements
The research tools, including pre-tests, post-tests, and questionnaires, were carefully developed to ensure their appropriateness for assessing young participants Special attention was given to designing the pre-test and post-test instruments to accurately measure students' active listening skills Additionally, a comprehensive survey questionnaire was utilized to gather valuable insights, supporting the study's objectives and ensuring reliable data collection.
44 was structured to unearth the attitudes of these young learners toward the Immersion Language Learning Method (IMLL)
This study was designed with clear objectives aligned with specific research questions, ensuring precise and focused language A critical evaluation of Burns' (2010) model was conducted, highlighting its four key stages: Planning, Action, Observation, and Reflection, as the chosen framework for this research Additionally, ethical considerations inherent to the research process were thoroughly discussed to ensure integrity and adherence to ethical standards.
This article provides an overview of the study's procedures and chronological sequence, highlighting the researcher's efforts in obtaining approvals from school authorities and conducting pre-test assessments It details the implementation of the IMLL intervention and the subsequent post-test evaluations, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the research process Additionally, the chapter explains the questionnaire administration process, emphasizing the strict time limits imposed on young students to ensure accurate and reliable data collection.
This chapter focused on data collection and analysis, utilizing SPSS statistical software to extract meaningful insights from the data The Likert scale in the questionnaire was emphasized as an effective tool for capturing students' perceptions The chapter concluded by highlighting the use of tables and figures to present research findings clearly and effectively, ensuring better comprehension of the results.
Chapter 3 provides a comprehensive overview of the research methodology, establishing a solid and systematic framework for the study It sets the foundation for the subsequent chapters by outlining the research design and methods used This chapter is essential for understanding how the research was conducted and ensures the validity of the findings discussed later.