STUDENTS’ PERCEPTION OF “ENGLISH TIME” PROGRAM TO IMPROVE STUDENTS’ SPEAKING SKILLS: A CASE STUDY IN ENGLISH EDUCATION STUDIES OF UIN BANDUNG

Abstract

This study examines students' perceptions of the "English Time" program designed to enhance speaking skills among English Education students at UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung. A qualitative case study approach was employed, using questionnaires, interviews, and observations to collect data from 30 participants. The findings indicate that the program effectively fosters confidence and speaking ability through structured activities such as group discussions, storytelling, and role-playing. These activities promote active language use, peer interaction, and consistent practice, which help students overcome challenges such as anxiety and improve their proficiency.

Additionally, the study explores the role of the learning environment and instructional strategies in facilitating language acquisition. The results suggest that students benefit significantly from the structured nature of "English Time," which provides a supportive and immersive context for practicing English. Furthermore, the study highlights key challenges, including initial reluctance and vocabulary limitations, while also identifying strategies students used to overcome these barriers.

The study concludes that the "English Time" program represents a successful model for improving speaking skills through structured and student-centered activities. The insights gained from this research can serve as a reference for educators and curriculum developers seeking to enhance English language learning programs through similar interactive and practice-based approaches.