English Language Learning Clubs: A Novel Approach to Improving EFL Students’ Verbal Communication Skills

Abstract

This empirical research study investigates the benefits of English-language learning Extracurricular Activities (ECAs) systems. It tried to explore the impact of English Language Learning Clubs (ELLCs) on the Anxiety and Oral Communication Skills (AOCS) of one hundred and thirty (130) intermediate English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners selected at random from four high schools in Benin. The findings showed that those learners, who previously did not have access to such activities, enhanced both self-assurance and oral communication skills (OCS) by participating in English Language Learning Communities for six months. Based on those findings, this research discussed the importance of ECAs’ educational practices in EFL teaching. It advocated for policies that encourage English Language Learning Clubs to develop EFL learners’ speaking skills.