Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to investigate EFL teachers’ beliefs and practice of using interactive
teaching strategy to teach speaking skills at secondary schools in Gambella town. The research design
employed in the study was descriptive research design. The study was conducted using sample of 32 EFL
teachers selected through comprehensive sampling technique. To collect the required data for the study
questionnaire, interview and classroom observation were used as an instrument. The data gathered using
the instruments were analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The findings of the
study indicated that although teachers have good awareness on the use of interactive teaching strategy to
teach speaking skills, but there were problems in the actual practice of interactive strategies in the EFL
classroom while teaching speaking skills. In addition, it was indicated in the study result though the
teachers had good awareness on the use of the strategies, there were problems on its actual practice. To
this regard, it was found that large class size, lack of materials and collaboration of the schools with the
concerned stakeholders were among the major factors hinder the effective practice of interactive teaching
strategy to teach speaking skills in the study area. Based on findings of the study, it was recommended
that teachers should keep on developing their awareness on the use of interactive teaching strategies to
teach speaking skills. Next, it was recommended that teachers should give attention for the actual
practice of interactive strategies in EFL classes. Furthermore, it is suggested that the schools should
work in collaboration with various stake holders in the region to enhance the practice of using interactive
teaching strategy to teach speaking skills in the study area.
