STUDENTS’ PERCEPTIONS ON THEIR ENGAGEMENT IN SMALL GROUP DISCUSSION

Abstract

The aims of this study were to describe how the students perceive their
engagement in small group discussions and to explain the factors that influence
the students engagement in small group discussions. A descriptive qualitative
design was used in this study. The source of data was 25 students of Grade VIII
SMP Al-Wasliyah 8 Medan. The data were analyzed by using descriptive
qualitative. The results showed that (1) The students perceive their engagement in
small group discussion positively. Most of the students agreed that being engaged
in small group discussion was useful for them as EFL students and agreed that
they have followed all activities in small group discussion and given their best
effort. The students agreed that they could participate well in small group
discussion, and felt motivated to engage themselves. The students felt that they
were confident enough to deliver their opinions in group discussion. Besides, all
of the students satisfied with their engagement in small group discussion. (2) The
factors that influence the students in engaging in small group discussion were the
students’ relationship with teachers, relationship with peers and classmates,
students’ self-efficacy, students’ self-regulated learning, and students’ interest in
learning.