The Effect of Task-based Language Learning on Speaking and Writing Skills of Arabic Language Learners in International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM)

Abstract

Many teachers at the Language Center of International Islamic University Malaysia complaining about the weakness of the Arabic anguage learners in speaking and writing skills. Perhaps there are several factors contributing to the weakness, which may include curriculums, teaching methods or teachers themselves. This current study dealt with the teaching methods and tried to answer the following research question: Is task-based learning and teaching approach has an impact on the development of speaking and writing skills of learners of Arabic as a second language at the Language Centre? To answer this question a 29 items questionnaire was developed. The questionnaire had 4 parts, that are a comparison between task-based learning approach and lecturing method, the effect of the task-based learning on the development of learners’ communication skill, the effect of task-based learning on the development of learners’ writing skills and learners’ perception in general toward task-based learningapproach. A sample of 76 learners of Arabic language from the Language Center has been selected. The study found that task-based learningapproach helped the learners to improve their communication skills, helped them to improve their writing skills. Task-based teaching made learners as center of the educational process and valued the role of the learners in learning process. Task-based teaching also encouraged learners to use several sources to get information and to solve language problems. It has been observed that learners enjoy using Arabic language through task-based teaching and participating in classes. So using real Arabic language in tasks or activities is important in learners’ learning process. This study recommended that learners’ participation in learning process is important, so diversifying teaching approaches to fit the learners’ communication in real life situations is needed. It is important to practice the language in real life situations rather than memorizing language’s rules (grammar), texts and notes.