Task-Based Learning for Enhancing Employability Skills among Students

Abstract

English language learning plays a vital role in equipping students with the knowledge, skills and attitude required for employability. The acquisition of linguistic and communicative competence makes a student proficient in achieving all the four aspects of language, such as phonology, pragmatics, semantics and syntax, using it appropriately in all social situations including the workplace. To be an expert in the four skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing is the most challenging task for non-native learners and a systematic approach is essentially needed for language learners to master these skills. The term 'communicative competence' covers all modes of competence including both social and grammatical competence. Communication will also encompass non-verbal behaviour. Grammatical competence can be achieved by mastering the structure of the target language whereas communicative competence can be achieved by mastering the structure of the language as well as the conventional rules of social behaviour. Task-based learning is very helpful in fostering communicative competence and confidence in students to acquire the language.