Abstract-The purposes of this study were to develop a blended learning model using Edmodo as a learning tool in language learning and examine the effectiveness of the model implemented in an English course regarding oral proficiency, motivation, and attitude. To achieve these purposes, a quasiexperimental design was employed to collect data using the tests and questionnaires. The samples in this study were the second-year students enrolled in an intermediate English course. The samples were from two classes, each of which contained 42 students. One class was used for the control group; another one for the experimental group. In the control group, students were only taught in a face-to-face learning environment using the PPP model whereas the experimental group studied through the PPP model in class supported by online learning using Edmodo. The findings indicate that blended learning was more effective than traditional learning. That is, students in the experimental group not only outperformed those in the control group in oral proficiency, but they also exhibited higher learning motivation. Although students in both groups did not differ in their attitude toward the PPP model, those in the experimental group expressed a positive attitude toward Edmodo. The findings of this study have implications for English language instructors, encouraging them to see how technology can facilitate learning and help learners produce better academic performance.Keywords-blended learning, Edmodo, oral proficiency, motivation
IntroductionOral communication is a vital part of language learning [1]. Oral proficiency refers to the ability to communicate verbally in a functional and accurate way in a target language [2]. A person with a high degree in oral proficiency is able to apply the linguistic knowledge to new situations or contexts. People in Thailand have realized that English oral proficiency is deemed necessary as the country is having more roles iJET -Vol. 12, No. 2, 2017 137Paper-A Development of the Blended Learning Model Using Edmodo for Maximizing Students' Oral Proficiency and Motivation in global community [3]. Especially, when the Asean Community was launched in January 2016, English competency is deemed necessary to compete with others in the labour market. Thai students' poor grasp of communication ability has become a major concern for educators and policy makers. Several obstacles that hinder oral proficiency include inadequate exposure to the English meditated environment [4], the lack of oral practice, the lack of confidence in speaking, and English accent of Thai instructors [5].One of the models that has been used to develop speaking skill is the "Presentation, Practice and Production (PPP)", starting with introducing the new teaching content, followed by controlled practice and a free practice. This model aims at moving from accuracy to fluency, focusing on form. The first step, "Presentation", is where the instructor examines how much of the target language the students know. The teacher will then presen...