KOTESOL International Conference 2016
(Concurrent Session)
Adam Murray, Miyazaki International College
Improving Listening Confidence by Alleviating Anxiety
Abstract
I will report on primary research on the impact of listening anxiety on listening performance as measured by the listening section of a widely-used English proficiency test. Next, I will describe ongoing action research on the effectiveness of classroom activities that cover a wide range of bottom-up and top-down listening micro-skills. These activities have been used with low proficiency (CEFR A1) Japanese university and junior college students in an effort to improve listening skills while attempting to reduce levels of listening anxiety. In addition to demonstrating these activities, I will talk about the opinions and reactions of the students to these activities. Although it is impossible to eliminate listening anxiety, raising teacher and student awareness is the first step in learning how to manage it.
Biographicals
Adam Murray (Dr.) is an experienced educator who is currently teaching at Miyazaki International College. For almost a decade, Adam has been teaching English as a Foreign Language to Japanese university students. His research interests are listening instruction, materials development, and assessment. He is currently the coordinator of the JALT Materials Writers Special Interest Group.
Return to the list of Concurrent Sessions at the KOTESOL 2016 International Conference
