Work

“Break the Silence Already”: A Dynamic Analysis Approach on How “Silence” Shapes the Communication in English as a foreign language Classrooms

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Silence does not equate to absence of communication. However, silent moments can, at times, hinder communication and close down opportunities for learner interaction. This study explores moments of obstructive silence in English as a foreign language (EFL) classrooms characterized by lack of opportunity to speak, unresponsiveness, and avoidance of talking. Employing a mixed‐methods research design incorporating structured observations and conversation analysis followed by stimulated recall interviews, the study seeks to (a) determine the extent of obstructive silence in EFL classrooms, (b) identify classroom patterns that obstruct opportunities to talk. Findings suggest that certain turn‐taking patterns, initiation–response–feedback (IRFs), and display questions are strong indicators of obstructive silent behavior.

Source: TESOL Quarterly

DOI: 10.1002/tesq.70016

Author: Najieh Abedinpour

Institution: Iran University of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: EFL/ESL Teaching and Learning

Subfield: Language and Linguistics

Field: Arts and Humanities

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: bronze

Funder: Iran University of Science and Technology