Assessment of Active Learning Methods in Linguistic Courses: Ambo University in Focus, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study attempts to explore learning style in Linguistic courses in which learners respond to and use different kinds of stimuli in their learning. Unlike other discipline, in linguistics learning is a development process in which learners use their existing knowledge to make sense of the flow of new information. The objectives of this study were Investigate both students’ and teachers’ feelings towards active learning methods, explore factors that hinder the application of ALMs in Language classes, identify the prevalent practices, opportunities and threats of ALMs Language classes, and seek remedial solutions for the identified problems in linguistics courses. The research design of this study was qualitative and quantitative. To collect the important information for the research the researcher was used the instruments such as questionnaire, and systematic observation. To mention some the findings most of the instructors used different active learning methods specially group discussion, class discussion, and presentation to deliver their lesson in linguistic courses. In addition, there are teachers who used Bus Stop, Gallery, Individual work and Gold Fish Bowl methods in addition to the above four stated methods of teaching to deliver their lesson as needed. Lack of willingness and commitment from teachers and students, Most students’ negative attitude towards ALMs, Large class size, Lack of resources and facilities, Students’ poor academic background, and the influence of old method of teaching. The university should prepare different workshop to develop the knowledge of teachers and students on ALMs in general and linguistic courses in particular.