Developing Effective Communication Skills in Tertiary Learning: Some Practical Approaches

Language might be inherent to all human beings and socio-cultural groups, but it has not been a constant unifying element in human histories. The labelling of contemporary languages as dominant and minority attests to the controversy surrounding language. Whereas all humans acquire language intuitively, one must cultivate the art of effective communication. Therefore, Communication Skills is a core subject in many universities. The three-year qualitative study, which generally highlighted the dominant role of English Language in global relations, was an instructor’s avenue to improve upon TVET classroom practice. The specific objective was to help the targeted university learners to develop critical perspectives to strive for effective communication skills. The study interrogated classroom attitudes toward English and Communication Skills, using English language learners (ELL), teachers of Communication Skills and teachers of other subjects. It explored the principles of participatory action research to investigate the reasons behind poor communication skills of learners. Amongst others, students’ marked scripts were analysed to determine effective communication. Additionally, participants’ responses were compared for themes. The study was guided by two research questions: Which effective approaches could a Communications Skills instructor explore to address students’ needs? How does the instructor balance teaching principles and gentle motivational strategies to help students hampered by severe communication handicaps? The study revealed that students’ English grasp was too low and obstructed advanced learning. Participants were persuaded to revisit their position on the subject. Among others, it was recommended that the institution should admit into professional programmes learners who possess the required language proficiency. Additionally, Communication Skills should be taught throughout a professional programme to help learners consolidate communicative skills – effective speaking, writing, reading, and listening.