THE EFFECTIVENESS OF GROUP DISCUSSION IN MAINTAINING CONTINUOUS STUDENTS’ PARTICIPATION IN ENGLISH LEARNING (SMP UNISMUH MAKASSAR)

Abstract

This study investigates the effectiveness of group discussion techniques in maintaining continuous student participation and improving speaking fluency in English learning. The research employed a quantitative approach using a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group model. Two classes were involved: an experimental class taught using group discussion techniques and a control class taught using conventional teaching methods. Data were collected through pre-tests and post-tests focusing on students’ speaking fluency and participation.The findings revealed a significant improvement in students’ speaking fluency and classroom participation in the experimental group after the implementation of group discussions. Students became more confident, actively engaged, and more willing to communicate in English during learning activities. The distribution of fluency scores shifted from the “very poor” and “poor” categories in the pre-test to higher categories such as “average” and “good” in the post-test. Meanwhile, the control group showed only slight improvement.These results indicate that group discussion is an effective learning strategy for creating an interactive learning environment, reducing students’ anxiety, and encouraging sustained participation. Therefore, group discussion techniques can be recommended as an effective pedagogical approach in English language teaching, particularly for improving speaking fluency and student engagement.