A survey of Motivational Strategies used by EFL teachers in listening lessons: Hurrumu, Abdi Bori and Nopa High Schools in focus

Abstract

The main purpose of this study was to make a survey of motivational strategies that were used by EFL teachers in enhancing the students’ listening skill. The study specifically covered the practice of teachers’ use of motivational strategies, how they see the roles and the challenges of applying the methods in the case of Hrurrumu, Abdi Bori, and Nopa High Schools found in three woredas of Ilubabor Zone. As the study employed descriptive research design, both quantitative and qualitative research methods were used. Random sampling technique was used to select sample students respondent; whereas, comprehensive sampling was used for EFL teachers. Questionnaires were administered to 180 students. Both questionnaire and semi-structured interview used to collect data from teachers. Furthermore, the researcher made observations were during the listening lesson. For the analysis of the quantitative data collected from students, frequency, percentage, mean score and standard deviation were used and the qualitative data collected from teachers were analyzed through narration. The results reveal that almost all teachers believed in the role of motivational strategies in the listening skill development. However, there was a considerable mismatch between what they believe and what they practice in the actual classroom. Teachers were not using effective and sustained motivational strategies convenient for the listening skill classroom. Some of the main challenges identified from the students’ side include, low interest and poor prior experience of the listening skill, and lack of skill to use the methods. The others are from the side of teachers. From the findings, it is possible to conclude that these motivational strategies help EFL teachers in enhancing students’ motivation and encouraging their involvement in the classroom activities of listening skill