Development of English Communication Skills on Uplifting Local Wisdom and Sales Career for Grade-8 Students Through Projects-Based Activities

Abstract

          This study utilized a quasi-experimental approach, employing a one-group pretest-posttest design. The objectives of this study were to: (1) develop and assess the quality of lesson plans integrating vocational work; (2) compare the communication skills of grade-8 students before and after the course; and (3) investigate the satisfaction level of grade-8 students with lesson plans that integrated vocational content. Grade 8 students' communication skills were aimed to be improved through project-based English learning activities, facilitating the enhancement of their speaking abilities for proficient professional English communication. With an increasing student population, the sample size will also expand. For the academic year 2023, the study focused on 18 grade-8 students, chosen through purposive sampling. The research lasted for 9 weeks, with two sessions per week, totaling 18 hours. The study employed: 1. Six lesson plans, amounting to 18 hours. 2. Project-based English learning activities designed to enhance local vocational knowledge and promote language communication skills among grade-8 students via four learning exercises. 3. An English language proficiency communication test. 4. A Satisfaction Assessment Form. Data collection utilized statistical methods, including rating scales, IOC, CVI, X, S.D., and T-test.
          The findings of this study showed that:
          1. All six lesson plans had an average content appropriateness score of 4.98 and a media quality score of 4.80, both meeting the highest acceptable standards.
          2. Academic success was evident with an improvement in English language skills before and after the course using the English learning plan based on project activities integrating local wisdom into vocational trading. This method resulted in a higher average score of 44.89 and a t-test value of 15.10.
          3. The satisfaction level of grade 8 students with the lesson plans integrating vocational content was high, with average scores of 4.11, 4.06, 4.23, 4.50, 4.33, and 4.33, respectively.