The Effectiveness of Project-Based Collaborative Learning in Improving English Speaking Skills of High School Students.

Аннотация

In an age where speaking English – not just reading or writing it – is increasingly essential for academic, social,
and professional interaction, Uzbek high school students often struggle with fluency, confidence, and meaningful communicative
practice. This article explores the potential of Project-Based Collaborative Learning (PBCL) as a pedagogical
approach to improve Uzbek high school students’ English-speaking skills. After reviewing key theoretical frameworks
– collaborative learning, project-based learning, and communicative language teaching – the study examines empirical
evidence from recent research, analyzes the core mechanisms of PBCL effectiveness, discusses practical implementation
issues (teacher roles, group composition, task design, feedback, assessment), and outlines current limitations and
future research directions.
The evidence suggests that PBCL can significantly enhance speaking proficiency by increasing learners’ motivation,
creating authentic communication contexts, encouraging peer interaction, and reducing speaking anxiety. However, its
success depends on careful instructional design, effective teacher scaffolding, and alignment of tasks with communicative
goals. The article concludes by identifying implications for English teachers, curriculum developers, and educational
policymakers, while offering suggestions for future studies aimed at optimizing PBCL for EFL speaking instruction.