Investigating the Correlation between EFL Learners Levels of Emotional Intelligence and their Speaking Performance: The Case of Secondary School Pupils in Ouled Dahmane

Abstract

ABSTRACT Keeping pace with the changing world, English language teaching has also adapted itself to meet the needs of different individuals. Nowadays, every stakeholder of the English language teaching and learning aims to individualize the process of learning for effective language achievement. As a matter of fact, different variables have been identified to enhance the process of learning and teaching English, among which emotional intelligence has proved itself as a key factor in doing so. This study is an attempt to investigate the relationship between emotional intelligence and speaking skills of Algerian secondary school students. For that purpose, 30 students, studying in Ismail Belfare secondary schools in Ouled Dahmane, were randomly selected. The design of the study is quantitative. The data were gathered through an emotional intelligence questionnaire and a speaking test. The results of the data analysis indicated that there is a significant relationship between emotional intelligence and speaking scores of the selected secondary school students. Accordingly, in order to facilitate language learning, teachers take the use of EI into consideration in their pedagogical plans for successful learning.