An Investigation into The Factors Influencing Non-verbal Communication Among Adult Algerian English as foreign language learners: A case study of First Year Students of English at the University of Biskra

Abstract

Non-verbal communication (NVC) is a type of communication which refers to the act of expressing ideas, feelings, or thoughts through the body. It mostly includes facial expression, eye contact, postures, and gestures. In the context of language learning, the use of body language is as important as spoken words in communication. This study aims to explore Algerian English as foreign language learners’ (EFL) use of NVC in Oral Expressions sessions and the factors influencing it. To achieve the study’s aim, an exploratory design with a mixed-method approach has been used to generate both qualitative and quantitative data. To answer the stated questions, semi-structured classroom observation sheets and semi-structured questionnaires were used as data collection tools. Accordingly, 80 first-year Algerian EFL learners at Mohamed Kheider University of Biskra were recruited as participants for this study. Descriptive statistics were conducted for the quantitative data by using Excel (2016); meanwhile, the thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data. The results of this study show that the use of body language by first-year EFL students in the classroom was moderate. As well, the most used NVC forms by EFL students were eye contact and postures. Additionally, this study highlights that the main factors that influence the use of body language by Algerian EFL students were psychological, pedagogical, and linguistic factors. These factors can promote or demotivate EFL students to use body language in Oral Expression sessions. Finally, the implication of the findings of the present study draws attention to the significance of the use of NVC in the classroom for curriculum designers, EFL teachers, and learners in order to create the appropriate classroom environment.