Collaborative work as a pedagogical strategy to improve oral skills in English among high school students (Original)

Abstract

This study analyzed the impact of collaborative work as a pedagogical strategy for improving oral proficiency in English among high school students at the Unidad Educative Fiscal Alejo Lascano through a case study. The research arose from the need to strengthen English communication skills, as many students experience difficulties with fluency, pronunciation, and speaking confidence. The main objective was to evaluate how the implementation of collaborative strategies, such as role-playing games, debates, and group projects, influenced the improvement of oral expression. The methodology used included a mixed-method approach with a quasi-experimental design. Diagnostic tests were administered before and after the intervention in a sample of 270 students, complemented by surveys and observations. The results showed a significant improvement in fluency (55%), pronunciation (62%), discursive coherence (48%), and speaking confidence (55%). Furthermore, students reported greater confidence in expressing themselves and greater motivation to learn English. It is concluded that collaborative work is an effective methodology for developing oral proficiency in English, as it encourages interaction, autonomy, and active student participation. Its implementation is recommended in public institutions to strengthen language teaching and improve students' communicative performance.