JALT2025 - Tokyo

Students’ Views on ‘Small Talk’ in University EFL Classrooms

Nov 1, 2025, 5:35 PM

30m

National Olympics Memorial Youth Center / 国立オリンピック記念青少年総合センター

Research-oriented Presentation (30-minutes) Japanese and Other Language Teaching & Learning Room 504

Speaker

Ephraim Domingo (Asia University (Tokyo))

Description

This study explores the effectiveness of 'small talk' as a teaching strategy in Japanese university EFL classrooms, based on feedback from 28 freshmen. Small talk was found to enhance speaking and listening skills, build confidence, and foster communication. While challenges like response formulation and occasional awkwardness were noted, students reported increased motivation and enjoyment. The findings highlight small talk’s potential as an engaging, practical tool for bridging classroom learning and real-world communication in EFL contexts.

Summary

This study explores the effectiveness of small talk as a teaching strategy in Japanese university EFL classrooms, based on feedback from 28 freshmen. Small talk was found to enhance speaking and listening skills, build confidence, and foster communication. While challenges like response formulation and occasional awkwardness were noted, students reported increased motivation and enjoyment. The findings highlight small talk’s potential as an engaging, practical tool for bridging classroom learning and real-world communication in EFL contexts.