Conversation Analysis on the Use of Communication Strategy of Technical Vocational Education and Training Students in Small Group Interaction: Basis in Designing Strategic Competence Enhancement Program

Abstract

This study examined the communication strategies used by Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students during small group interactions through conversation analysis. Specifically, it aimed to identify the represented and underrepresented communication strategies employed by TVET students during conversations and use the findings as the basis for designing a Strategic Competence Enhancement Program. The study utilized a qualitative research design using conversation analysis in examining the interactions of selected TVET students. Data were gathered through recorded small group conversations, which were transcribed and analyzed based on the communication strategies demonstrated by the participants. The findings revealed that the communication strategies among TVET students included the use of all-purpose words, message abandonment, retrieval, self-rephrasing, circumlocution, response: confirm, response expand, asking for clarification, asking for confirmation, and indirect appeal for help. These strategies were frequently observed in sustaining interaction and maintaining the flow of conversation. On the other hand, underrepresented communication strategies included literal translation false friend, literal translation from L3, L1-based foreignizing, L3-based foreignizing, code switching to L3, response repeat, response repair, direct appeal for help, interpretive summary, and own accuracy help, which appeared less frequently during the interactions. Based on the findings, a Strategic Competence Enhancement Program was designed to help improve the communicative competence of TVET students. The study concludes that TVET students employ different communication strategies to manage communication difficulties and maintain mutual understanding during small group discussions. The findings highlight the importance of communication strategies in facilitating effective interaction among participants despite language limitations.