RECONCEPTUALIZING EFL SPEAKING DEVELOPMENT THROUGH EXPERIENTIAL CULTURAL ENGAGEMENT: THE EXREFER FIELD-BASED LEARNING MODEL

Antonius Ali Wutun

Abstract


This study reconceptualizes EFL speaking development through an experiential, field-based approach grounded in local culture. Conducted in Tanah Toraja, Indonesia, as tourism destination for its unique culture, it examines how the EXREFER model enhances speaking in authentic contexts using qualitative data from a ten-day program. Findings show that culturally meaningful content improves fluency and confidence, while familiar contexts reduce cognitive load and anxiety. Iterative cycles of experience, reflection, feedback, and re-application foster gradual improvement, enabling students to communicate effectively in English with foreign visitors. The study highlights the value of culturally responsive, experiential learning and proposes EXREFER as a practical framework for developing communicative competence beyond traditional classrooms.

Keywords


EFL speaking development; experiential learning; cultural immersion; EXREFER model; communicative competence

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejel.v11i5.7008

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