Improve the speaking skills of Form 3 students through John Dewey's theory

Abstract: This study explores the application of John Dewey's educational theory to develop the oral skills of high school students in learning Tamil. Dewey's emphasis on experiential learning, student-centered instruction, and research-based methods offers a valuable framework for improving oral communication abilities. This study was conducted to achieve two objectives. The first objective is to identify the problems faced by Form 3 students in oral skills. The second objective is to improve the oral skills of Form 3 students through John Dewey's Experiential Learning theory. This research was conducted using a mixed approach, with quantitative and qualitative data collected from 23 female Form 3 and 4 teachers from Butterworth Convent High School in Butterworth, Penang. Instruments used to collect data include pre-tests, post-activity tests, interviews, and observations. After the initial test, the researcher carried out 4 activities namely Minimal Pair Practice, Role-Play, WH Questioning, and Learning Trios A-B-C to improve the oral skills of the students. Specifically, this research investigates how Dewey's principles can be implemented in the context of a Tamil language education program for secondary school students and improve students' fluency, confidence, and critical thinking in communication. Overall, the test results emphasize that there is significant growth in speaking skills among students. Keywords: John Dewey education, qualitative, Dewey's principles