INTRODUCTION
Rationale
In today's interconnected world, mastering nonverbal communication has become increasingly vital for effective interaction This form of communication is essential in various forums and aspects of life, including educational and professional settings in Vietnam As such, understanding and utilizing nonverbal cues is more important than ever for successful communication.
However, there are still some problems today about the teaching and learning nonverbal communication , particularly at Hai Phong Private University (HPU)
Many first-year English majors exhibit passivity in their nonverbal communication, often hesitating to engage in related activities during lessons despite their understanding and ability to practice As a result, their nonverbal communication skills remain underdeveloped, with only a small number demonstrating effective use of these skills.
In order to help the students at HPU, especially the first year English majors at
HPU improve their nonverbal communication skill, the author of the study carries on this study with the title: “THE EFFECTS OF NON-VERBAL
The research aims to enhance nonverbal communication skills among first-year English majors at HPU's Foreign Languages Department, ultimately improving their overall communicative abilities.
Aims of the study
This study focuses on enhancing students' nonverbal communication skills through effective techniques, aiming to foster a deeper appreciation for nonverbal cues among both teachers and students By transforming students' attitudes towards nonverbal communication, the author seeks to make the subject more engaging and improve overall communication effectiveness in the classroom.
First-year English majors at HPU are anticipated to embrace nonverbal communication as their preferred activity To achieve this goal, our research question for the study focuses on exploring the significance and impact of nonverbal communication among these students.
To what extent do the nonverbal communications help interpersonal communcation?
Scope of the study
This study aims to enhance nonverbal communication skills among first-year English majors at HPU through various techniques Due to constraints in time, resources, and knowledge, the researcher implemented an action plan featuring effective methods tailored for these students The findings are specific to the participants involved and may not be broadly applicable to all students, but they serve as valuable references for anyone seeking to improve their nonverbal communication skills.
Methods of the study
To complete this study, a variety of methods have been employed:
- Concemed materials including reference books on teaching methodology have been carefully studied and analyzed
- A survey questionnaire was conducted to the first year English majors at HPU to gather information and evidence for the study
All the comments, remarks, recommendations and conclusion provided in the study were based on the data analysis of the study.
Significance of the study
This study is important for multiple reasons: it aims to assess the positive impact of nonverbal communication on students' communication skills, enhances students' understanding of nonverbal cues, and shifts their attitudes toward this form of communication Additionally, the findings underscore the need to incorporate these techniques into English language teaching and learning at HPU.
Design of the study
To describe the study clearly and understand it deeply about the effect of nonverbal communication on interpersonal communication especially hand gesture , my paper is performed by 3 parts:
Part one is an introduction which includes rationale, aims, scope, methods, significance and design of the study
Part two is the development and also the most important part Development part has three main chapters:
-Chapter 1 : In this chapter, the researcher introduces the theory of communication, verbal communication, nonverbal communication, interpersonal communications and gestures, the effect of non-verbal communication on interpersonal communications
Chapter Two explores the impact of non-verbal communication on interpersonal interactions within the context of learning and teaching English speaking skills at Hai Phong Private University It examines the teaching staff, students, and the overall conditions for English instruction The chapter details the design and implementation of survey questionnaires used to gather data, along with the analysis of the results Findings reveal insights into students' learning time, attitudes towards non-verbal communication, and their perceived importance of these skills The results indicate the frequency of non-verbal communication usage during class, students’ perspectives on its effects on interpersonal communication, and the role of hand gestures Additionally, students expressed their expectations for incorporating more non-verbal communication techniques in their learning process.
Part three is the conclusion that summarizes the content of the paper
Graduating under challenging circumstances has inevitably led to some mistakes in my work Nevertheless, I aim for this material to serve as a valuable resource for English learners seeking to enhance their understanding of nonverbal communication.
DEVELOPMENT
LITERATURE REVIEW
Communication has garnered significant attention from researchers, leading to various definitions, particularly in the context of language learning methodology At its core, communication involves the transmission of a message via a channel—such as air, cell phones, or printed and audiovisual media—between a sender and a receiver.
Effective communication hinges on the successful transmission and clear understanding of a message by the recipient, ensuring there is no misinterpretation or omission of vital information.
Language (verbal, written or gestural), in any of its forms, is the most common mechanism to transmit ideas between two or more people
Every communication, whether intentional or not, impacts the receiver in some way When the message is fully understood, it typically achieves the intended effect.
Communication is a complex process oriented towards the action of informing, generating the understanding in the counterpart and inducing some type of response on the part of the receiver
Those versed in communication have a fairly broad perception of the subject, based on their experience Five definitions of communication are presented by some experts in the field:
Alberto Martínez de Velasco and Abraham Nosnik
Communication is a process that involves one person conveying a message to another, anticipating a response in the form of an opinion, action, or behavior.
" In other words, communication is a way to establish contact with others through ideas, facts, thoughts and behaviors, looking for a reaction to the statement that has been sent "- Abraham Nosnik
Mexican authors emphasize that the purpose of communication is to influence or strengthen the behavior of the recipient, indicating that communication is inherently transactional, aiming to elicit a response or gain something in return.
"It is a process of social interaction, through signs and sign systems, product of human activities Men in the communication process express their needs, aspirations, criteria, emotions, etc."
Communication is the act of sharing aspects of ourselves with others, driven by a fundamental rational and emotional need This human quality fosters connections through the exchange of ideas, which gain significance based on shared experiences.
Defining 'Communication' can be complex, as various scholars offer different interpretations At its core, communication is the process of sending and receiving messages between two parties, facilitating the transfer of information and understanding This interaction can take place through various methods, which can be classified into two main types based on the channels used: verbal and nonverbal communication Verbal communication encompasses both written and oral forms, while nonverbal communication includes body language, facial expressions, and visual aids such as diagrams or pictures.
Verbal communication encompasses the spoken and written expression of messages, utilizing human language as a system of symbols and grammatical rules Language is characterized by common properties, with most languages employing sound or gesture patterns for effective communication While language learning is most pronounced during childhood, distinctions between languages and dialects are often blurred Additionally, constructed languages like Esperanto, programming languages, and mathematical formalism may not adhere to the typical properties of human languages.
Language is inherently symbolic, as highlighted by Charles Ogden and I.A Richards in their Triangle of Meaning model This model illustrates the relationship between a word (the symbol), the object it refers to (the referent), and the associated thought or concept (the meaning) that connects the two.
Language is governed by specific rules that dictate its properties, including phonological rules that define the sounds used, syntactic rules that determine the arrangement of words and punctuation in sentences, semantic rules that establish the agreed-upon meanings of words, and pragmatic rules that derive meaning from context.
Words carry meanings that can be classified as literal, or denotative, which directly relate to the topic at hand Alternatively, meanings can be connotative, taking into account the context, relationships, feelings, history, and power dynamics between communicators.
Verbal Communication is further divided into: Oral Communication and Written Communication
Oral communication involves the use of spoken words in various forms such as face-to-face conversations, speeches, telephone calls, video chats, radio, television, and voice over the internet The effectiveness of oral communication is influenced by factors like pitch, volume, speed, and clarity of speech The advantages of oral communication include its immediacy, the ability to convey emotions, and the opportunity for instant feedback.
In a face-to-face conversation, by reading facial expression and body language one can guess whether he/she should trust what’s being said or not o Disadvantage of oral communication
In face-to-face discussion, user is unable to deeply think about what he is delivering, so this can be counted as a
Written communication utilizes symbols or signs to convey messages, which can be either printed or handwritten This form of communication can occur through various mediums such as emails, letters, reports, and memos The effectiveness of a written message is shaped by factors such as vocabulary, grammar, writing style, and the overall clarity and precision of the language employed.
Written Communication is most common form of communication being used in business Therefore, it is considered core among business skills
Written communication encompasses various formats for both internal and external interactions Internally, organizations utilize memos, reports, bulletins, job descriptions, employee manuals, and emails For external communication, they rely on emails, websites, letters, proposals, telegrams, faxes, postcards, contracts, advertisements, brochures, and news releases The advantages of written communication include clarity, permanence, and the ability to convey complex information effectively.
Messages can be edited and revised many time before it is actually sent
Written communication provide record for every message sent and can be saved for later study
A written message enables receiver to fully understand it and send appropriate feedback o Disadvantages of written communication includes:
Unlike oral communication, Written communication doesn’t bring instant feedback
It takes more time in composing a written message as compared to word- of-mouth In addition, number of people struggles for writing ability
Nonverbal communication (NVC) involves the transmission of messages without words, utilizing various cues such as body language (kinesics), spatial distance (proxemics), and the physical environment It encompasses vocal elements (paralanguage) and touch (haptic), as well as eye contact and the behaviors associated with speaking and listening.
THE STUDY ON THE EFFECT OF NON-VERBAL
1 The reality of learning and teaching English-speaking skill at Hai Phong Private University
The teaching staff at HPU, especially in the Foreign Language Department, is characterized by high professionalism and a strong sense of responsibility The lecturers are not only well-qualified and dedicated but also exhibit enthusiasm in their teaching approach With a modern teaching style, they foster a friendly environment that promotes open communication This engagement allows for meaningful exchanges of experiences, deepening the understanding between teachers and students and ultimately enhancing the quality of the lectures.
A final-year student at HPU conducted a study focused on enhancing English language learning methods Driven by her passion for the language, she continuously seeks effective strategies to improve her learning experience The researcher aims to make the findings of this study applicable and engaging for learners.
A study was conducted involving 22 first-year English Department students from class NA2101 at HPU Evidence suggests that many of these students, fresh from high school, exhibit passivity in their learning processes and lack the habit of utilizing nonverbal communication effectively.
Many English majors struggle with nonverbal communication, often concentrating solely on verbal content during conversations As a result, numerous students find it challenging to effectively utilize nonverbal cues This raises an important question: how can we inspire students to develop their interest and motivation in enhancing their nonverbal communication skills?
Follows are the advantages and disadvantages of the first year English majors at HPU:
Students can receive constant help and support of the school and the lecturers in Foreign Language Department
They have chance to study in a modern studying environment, which have been equipped with modern facilities
They can practice directly with the foreigners in class
The students’ background knowledge is not uneven
A big number of students are not active
Students focus too much on using verbal communication and forget the importance of nonverbal communication
Some of them are so shy and lack of confidence and they try to avoid using nonverbal communication in front of the class
1.4 English teaching and learning condition at Hai Phong Private
Classrooms are now equipped with modern technology, including projectors, cameras, air conditioners, and internet-enabled computers, along with wireless connectivity Teachers frequently utilize projectors to enhance the engagement and effectiveness of English lessons.
Teachers and students engage in various activities to enhance English nonverbal communication skills and encourage self-expression Events like the English Olympics, Halloween, and Christmas celebrations provide fun opportunities for students to participate, play, and share knowledge in English, fostering a deeper learning experience.
It can be said that the learning conditions at HPU are good enough and convenient for students to study English effectively
2.1 The design of the survey questionnaires
According to Nunan (1992), a questionnaire is a data collection tool that typically includes both open and closed questions, requiring responses from participants This method is particularly effective for gathering information on less observable phenomena, such as motivation, attitudes, and language learning strategies.
This study utilizes questionnaires as a key data collection tool to gather information on the nonverbal communication skills of first-year English majors at HPU The primary objective is to explore students' attitudes and expectations regarding their study of nonverbal communication The questionnaires consist of eight targeted questions designed to elicit insightful responses.
2.2.3 The result on the s tudents’ perceived importance of nonverbal communication
The first question explores the amount of time students dedicate to learning English, aiming to gain deeper insights into their engagement with the language By understanding students' bonding time with English, the author can provide tailored information and effective methods to enhance their learning experience.
Question 2 explores students' attitudes toward learning nonverbal communication Not all students are motivated by a genuine interest in the subject By gaining insights into their specific preferences for nonverbal communication, the author can develop effective strategies to enhance their enthusiasm for this vital skill.
Questions 4 and 5 are also, about how often they use nonverbal communication and their opinions on the effects of nonverbal communication on interpersonal communications These can bring information that is more specific and help the author have a better look into students’ habit of practicing nonverbal communication As well as their ideas on the effect of nonverbal communication
Question 6 is about how often they use hand gestures This can bring more specific information and help the study become more valid and realistic
Questions 7 and 8 explore students' views on the impact of hand gestures in communication and their expectations for additional nonverbal communication techniques These techniques aim to help teachers meet students' needs, foster a love for speaking English, and improve students' nonverbal communication skills.
2.2.1 The result on the students’ English learning time
Chart1 The students’ English learning time
All students have studied English for over five years, beginning in grade 3 Many of them have dedicated 13 years to learning the language, indicating a significant commitment to their English education.
2.2.2 Result on Students’ attitude toward learning nonverbal communication skills
Chart 2:The students' attitude toward learning nonverbal communication skills
Chart 2 shown that the students' attitude toward learning nonverbal communication skills, 10 students feel normal and only 1 hate it, 6 students like and 3 students like very much , and 2 students do not like For them , learning nonverbal communication might be neither interesting nor boring ort it depends on each other
2.2.3 The result on the student perceived importance of nonverbal communication
Chart 3: the student perceived importance of nonverbal communication
Chart 3 show that the student perceived importance of nonverbal communication Almost students (18 students) agree that the nonverbal is important , very few of them think it is not important
2.2.4 The result on the student' frequency of using nonverbal communication
Chart 4 The students' frequency of using nonverbal communication
12 always usually Sometimes rarely never
Chart 3 illustrates the frequency of nonverbal communication among students The data reveals that 10 students sometimes utilize nonverbal cues, while 7 students usually do Additionally, 5 students always engage in nonverbal communication, and only a few do so rarely In summary, nonverbal communication is used by students at varying frequencies, with many employing it regularly in their interactions.
2.2.5 The result from students’ opinions on the effects of nonverbal communication on interpersonal communications
Chart5 The students’ opinions on the effects of nonverbal communication on interpersonal communications
FINDING AND DISCUSSION
This research paper investigates the attitudes of first-year English major students at HPU towards learning nonverbal communication By surveying their experiences, the author aims to provide valuable suggestions to enhance their understanding and skills in this area The goal is to offer effective techniques that will support students in making significant progress in their study of nonverbal communication.
A survey conducted among 22 final-year English majors at HPU reveals that most participants enjoy using nonverbal communication and have extensive experience learning English This indicates that teachers can leverage these preferences and experiences to enhance their teaching effectiveness.
A solid foundation in English is essential for effective communication, and all participants acknowledged that learning English speaking skills alongside nonverbal communication significantly enhances their understanding and engagement Furthermore, this approach fosters stronger friendships and promotes collaboration among learners.
In conclusion, incorporating nonverbal communication activities into English speaking lessons for first-year English majors is crucial A more engaging and relaxed classroom atmosphere enhances the enjoyment of lessons for both teachers and students, fostering greater passion, creativity, and active participation.
CONCLUSION
Students at HPU and the general public should utilize non-verbal communication when interacting with foreigners in English This study was initiated to explore the significance of non-verbal cues in such interactions.
Drawing on my four years of study at HPU and the invaluable support of MA Pham Thi Thuy, I developed a structured outline to explore the impact of nonverbal communication on first-year English majors The primary goal of this study is to enhance the appreciation and use of nonverbal communication among both teachers and students in the Foreign Language Department at HPU By fostering a more comfortable and relaxed atmosphere in English speaking classes, I believe we can make the learning experience more engaging and effective.
I actively engaged with fellow students to encourage them to confront their challenges and enhance their academic progress By sharing insights and experiences, I aimed to foster a deeper understanding between teachers and students Additionally, I offered suggestions to make communication more engaging and effective.
In conclusion, the author expresses heartfelt gratitude to HPU and the esteemed teachers in the Foreign Language Department The aim is to assist future generations of English majors in enhancing their communication skills, ultimately paving the way for their success and a brighter future.
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Psychology Retrieved March 14, 2011 from http://clearinghouse.missouriwestern.edu/manuscripts/70.php
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2011 from http://www.spanishprograms.com/spanish-culture.htm
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20 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Communication
21 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interpersonal_communication
22 http://lib.hpu.edu.vn/bitstream/handle/123456789/19373/7_BuiTuyetMai_ NA901.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y
23 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zn2iRG7bI2I
24 https://www.bartleby.com/essay/The-Importance-of-Interpersonal-
This questionnaire aims to assess your attitudes toward nonverbal communication, ultimately focusing on enhancing your communication skills We encourage you to share your honest opinions!
We kindly ask you to select the response that best reflects your thoughts and to provide any additional comments at the end of the sheet if you wish Your honest feedback on nonverbal communication is essential for us to enhance its appeal and better cater to your needs Thank you for your cooperation!
1.How long have you been learning English?
□ 0-1 year □ 2 - 5 years □ more than 5 years
2 Do you like using nonverbal communication, in general?
□Like very much □ Like □ Normal
3 In your opinion, how important is nonverbal communication?
□ Not very important □ Not important
4 How often do you use nonverbal communication in class time?
□Always □ Usually □ sometimes □ rarely □ never
5 What do you think about the effects of nonverbal communication on interpersonal communications ?
6 In speaking lesson, which of the following hand gestures do you often use?
Hand gestures Frequency of using
Always Usually Often Seldom Never Listing
A tiny bit Listen up Let me tell you You
7 What do you think about the effects of using hand gestures during communication?
8 Do you want to have another nonverbal communications to learn English speaking more effectively?
Thank you for your co-operation!
BẢNG CÂU HỎI DÀNH CHO SINH VIÊN
(Phần viết bằng tiếng Việt)
Chào các bạn sinh viên thân mến,
Mục đích của những câu hỏi này là thu thập ý kiến xác thực về thái độ của bạn đối với giao tiếp phi ngôn ngữ, nhằm tìm ra giải pháp nâng cao kỹ năng giao tiếp Tôi mong rằng bạn sẽ trả lời những câu hỏi sau một cách thành thực, phản ánh quan điểm cá nhân của mình.
Hãy chọn những phương án trả lời phù hợp với suy nghĩ của bạn và chia sẻ ý kiến của mình ở phần trống bên dưới Chúng tôi mong bạn thành thật và thẳng thắn khi trả lời các câu hỏi này để tìm ra giải pháp giúp tiết học tiếng Anh trở nên thú vị hơn Tất cả đều vì lợi ích của bạn Xin chân thành cảm ơn sự hợp tác của bạn.
1.Bạn đã học tiếng Anh được bao lâu?
2 Nhìn chung bạn có thích sử dụng giao tiếp phi ngôn ngữ ?
□Rất thích □ thích □ Bình thường
3 Theo quan điểm của bạn, việc sử dụng giao tiếp phi ngôn ngữ có quan trọng không?
□ Rất quan trọng □ quan trọng □ Bình thường
□ Không quan trọng lắm □ Không quan trọng
4 Trong những giờ học nói tiếng Anh bạn có sử dụng giao tiếp phi ngôn ngữ ?
□Luôn luôn □ Thường xuyên □ thỉnh thoảng □ Gần như không □ Không bao giờ
5 Bạn nghĩ gì về ảnh hưởng của giao tiếp phi ngôn ngữ trong giao tiếp?
□ Rất tốt □ Tốt □ Bình thường
6 Trong tiết nói , tần suất sử dụng cử chỉ tay của bạn như thế nào?