Browsing by Author "Cazar Costales, Segundo Salvador"

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    Learning apps for the development of speaking skills in English as a foreign language students
    (Ciencia Y Educación, 2025-10-10) Rosado Castro, María del Carmen; Cazar Costales, Segundo Salvador; Letamendi Lazo, Carmen Andrea; Bonilla Tenesaca, Josué Reinaldo
    This paper investigates the impact of mobile applications on the speaking skills of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners. Given the low level of English proficiency in Ecuador, attributed to limited opportunities for oral communication practice, outdated pedagogical approaches, and insufficient technological knowledge among teachers, this study aims to promote the use of technological tools such as HelloTalk, Speaky, and Mondly to foster more meaningful and engaging learning experiences. A mixed-methods approach was implemented with a sample of 50 high school students. Students’ fluency, pronunciation, vocabulary, coherence, and interaction were assessed through a pre-test and a post-test. The results revealed significant improvements resulting from the technological intervention, particularly in verbal fluency, overall confidence, and oral communication skills. The use of applications based on the Tandem Collaborative Learning Model enabled students to interact with native speakers or artificial intelligence, providing authentic contexts for language practice. Furthermore, students demonstrated high levels of motivation and autonomy as they engaged in self-directed learning environments. This study highlights that English language learning can be enhanced through the use of mobile applications, provided that their implementation is supported by a sound pedagogical framework. Such a framework should extend beyond the development of basic communication skills and incorporate an integrated approach that prepares learners to navigate real-world globalized professional environments.