The Influence of Instructional Media Use on Learners’ English Language Competence: A Case of Secondary Schools in Monduli District, Tanzania

Senior Lecturer of Curriculum and Teaching, University of Arusha – MA Student, University of Arusha *Corresponding author: ngussathe5th@gmail.com

Received December 4, 2018; Revised December 5, 2018; Accepted December 5, 2018

Abstract: Effective learning involves abilities to recall facts as well as comprehension of ideas. While this is true in any subject matter, the learning of English demands learners to possess such abilities. The present study was propelled by the fact that mastery of English is one of key challenges facing secondary school teachers and learners in Tanzania where Kiswahili is medium of instruction in Primary Schools while English takes over as medium of instruction in secondary schools. The study employed survey research design. Five out of seven secondary schools in Monduli District were randomly selected to participate by filling the questionnaire. Validity of the questionnaire was assured through expert judgment. Reliability test yielded Cronbach’s Alpha greater than 0.7 in each variable. Data was analyzed through Descriptive Statistics, t-test and Pearson product Moment Correlation coefficient. The study established that students, regardless of their gender differences, perceived to be competent in the use of English Language as medium of Instruction. Teachers used visual materials, audio materials, audio-visual materials as well as real things to enhance effective learning. The use of real things has strong correlation while the use of audio, visual and audio visual has weak and/ or moderate correlation with students’ competence in English Language. It is therefore recommended that teachers should take advantage of students’ competence in English language to enhance the teaching-learning effectiveness. Since the use of real things has more positive influence toward English competence, teachers should be encouraged to use such type of instructional media with the support of the audio, the visual and the audio visual types.