Innovative Approaches to Enhancing EFL Speaking Skills: Public Speaking, Technology, Debate, and Drama

Abstract

Speaking is one of the core skills in learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL); however, students generally face barriers such as fear, limited vocabulary, and a lack of speaking opportunities. This study explores the impact of several innovative approaches in improving speaking skills, including individual presentations, Technology-Enhanced Language Learning (TELL), debates, drama-based pedagogy, and the identification of language-learning challenges. Data were collected through a Google Form questionnaire completed by 17 respondents using a Likert scale from 1 to 5. The results show that a combination of pedagogical, performative, and technological approaches can improve fluency, confidence, and the ability to respond spontaneously. Most participants agreed that learning through digital applications, debates, and drama can improve speaking skills and enhance motivation. However, some respondents still felt anxious and struggled to generate ideas when speaking spontaneously. This study supports recent findings that multimodal approaches create more meaningful, engaging, and effective learning experiences. The implication is that educators should adopt varied and adaptive methods to support students' speaking development holistically.