Communication Competence Related Skills in the Context of Student Performance and Teaching in EFL Classroom

Communication skills related to general communication competence are frequently placed in the context of foreign language acquisition (L2) and learning English as a foreign language (EFL). For instance, self-disclosure was investigated in relation to writing and discussion assignments in an online course [1], (un)willingness to communicate was explored in association with the frequency of communication in an L2 environment [2], [3], interaction management was observed in the context of CALL [4], and listening skills were analysed in the mobile language learning environment [ 5]. In this paper an overview of topics associated with communication skills that appear in literature on L2 learning is presented, along with a model of students' communication competence in an L2 and EFL learning contexts that was adapted from the computer-mediated communication competence model by Spitzberg [6] and his intercultural competence model [7]. A number of potential uses and benefits of communication skills instruction that is integrated in EFL teaching and learning is briefly outlined and explained. Assessment instruments for measuring communication skills of L2 and EFL learners are cited and their potential implementation in measuring learners' skill level, as well as in L2 and EFL instruction, are briefly explained. To conclude, communication skills can be used both for the assessment of individual differences of learners and as a subject of L2/EFL instruction. They are an important tool for delivering and displaying L2 and EFL competence in a practical real-world environment and can be used to facilitate both learning and enactment of L2 linguistic competence.