Utilizing communication strategies to enhance reflective learning in Ethiopian EFL classrooms

Various studies have extensively examined classroom communication patterns in active language learning classrooms at higher education levels. However, research in the Ethiopian context is limited. While these studies contribute significantly to the field, they neglect to explore classroom communication patterns in reflective classroom practices. This study aimed to evaluate the communication patterns used by English as foreign language instructors in facilitating reflective learning within the Communicative English Language Skill Course at Hawassa University. Guided by constructivist theory, the research adopted a descriptive qualitative case study design within the interpretative paradigm. Ten certified Higher Diploma Program instructors teaching the course were purposefully selected for data collection through classroom observation and semi-structured interviews. Both datasets were audio-recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed. The findings revealed three communication patterns: instructorto-student, student-to-student, and student-to-instructor. The instructor-to-student pattern was the most commonly observed across all classes, characterized by instructors posing questions and students engaging in individual and collective reflection. However, the student-to-student pattern was rarely observed, particularly during group activities, and students often struggled to express their views due to time constraints. Additionally, there was limited communication between students and instructors, even when students had the opportunity to ask questions or give feedback. Despite instructors' efforts to establish rapport with students, reflective learning was not adequately facilitated through student-to-student and student-to-instructor communications. In conclusion, communication patterns in fostering reflective learning faced limitations, primarily due to insufficient opportunities for student reflection and inadequate time allocation for the reflection process, impacting its effectiveness.