Exploring the Impact of Multimodal Language Learning Activities on oral Skill Development: A Study of In-Class Oral Speech, PowerPoint Presentations, Video, and Blog Projects in an International Context

In recent years, the digitalization of society has sparked growing interest in multimodality, particularly within applied linguistics and second language acquisition (SLA). Research in computer-assisted language learning (CALL) has examined how both teachers and students perceive and implement multimodal activities in second language classrooms, exploring their effects on L2 comprehension, writing, and vocabulary development. However, the impact of multimodal activities on L2 oral skill development, specifically oral presentation skills, remains underexplored. This study investigates the influence of four different modes of oral presentations (oral speech, PowerPoint presentations, video projects, and blog projects) as multimodal activities on the L2 oral skill development of first-year ELT students in an international context in northern Cyprus. Employing a mixed-method approach, including surveys, reflections, and interviews, the study reveals that multimodal activities significantly enhanced integrated skills, particularly vocabulary, grammar, writing, presentation, and speaking abilities. These activities also enabled students to identify and correct linguistic errors while improving their presentation skills through the consistent use of language across various modes (e.g., classroom presentations and blog reflections). Additionally, multimodality fostered social skills by facilitating group participation, peer collaboration, feedback exchange, and the negotiation of linguistic, content, and technical knowledge. On a psychological level, the multimodal approach helped students overcome their fear of oral presentations, reduce anxiety, boost self-confidence, and increase motivation. The use of visuals, such as PowerPoint slides, videos, and blogs, presented both challenges and opportunities, underscoring the importance of training students to effectively utilize multimodal activities to enhance their speaking skills and highlighting the need to integrate such technologies into L2 education.