Exploring the Use of Oral Communication Strategies by (Non)Fluent L2 Speakers

Abstract

This study explored, first, the use of oral communication strategies (OCSs) by fluent and nonfluent Iranian L2 speakers and, second, the association between gender and the use of different types of OCSs. To this end, 50 undergraduate EFL students (20 males and 30 females) at Shahrekord University (Iran) were randomly selected as the participants, and their recorded speech samples were rated by two raters. Furthermore, the OCS inventory used which included eight categories of strategies for coping while speaking and seven categories of strategies for coping while listening. The MANOVA results of the data analysis revealed that fluent L2 speakers employed more OCSs than their nonfluent counterparts. Specifically, the fluent speakers more frequently used social-affective, fluency-oriented, and meaning-negotiation strategies for coping with speaking problems and employed scanning and getting-the-gist strategies for coping with listening problems. However, nonfluent participants significantly utilized more nonverbal and word-oriented strategies for coping with listening difficulties. The findings suggest that nonfluent L2 speakers should be familiarized and made aware of the importance of effective OCSs.