Enhancing Students' Speaking Skills through the El Yasir Method at an Islamic Boarding School

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of the El Yasir Method on improving the English-speaking skills of students at the El Yasir English Club in Roudlotul ‘Ulum Islamic Boarding School, Kebumen, Indonesia. Despite the recognized importance of English-speaking skills for global communication, there is a paucity of research investigating contextually appropriate and integrated methods tailored to Islamic boarding schools, where authentic English exposure is limited. Employing a descriptive qualitative approach complemented by quantitative assessments, the study involved 14 active student participants. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, observations, and repeated speaking tests over four phases. Results indicate significant improvements in fluency, vocabulary acquisition, pronunciation, and speaking confidence. The method’s holistic design—combining phonetic instruction, vocabulary memorization, immersive English-only environments, and authentic communicative activities such as public speaking and interaction with foreign tourists—addresses both linguistic and affective learning domains. Despite social and environmental challenges limiting English use beyond the club, the program fostered substantial gains in oral proficiency. This study contributes valuable insights into English language education within Islamic boarding schools and proposes the El Yasir Method as a replicable model for similar contexts. Future research should explore longitudinal impacts and strategies to overcome sociocultural barriers.