Abstract :
The purposes of this study were to know how group discussion conducted in speaking class at English Department of UMM. The reason of taking this study was that the researcher wondered to the implementation of group discussion in speaking class and how were the studentsÂ’ responses to group discussion.
This research used descriptive qualitative design. The population of this research was the first semester students of English Department of UMM, and the sample of this research was class B. The researcher decided the sample by using Cluster Random Sampling method. In collecting the data, the researcher used non-participant observation. It was aimed to know the real situation of the students in discussion. In addition, the writer used questionnaires as well. The writer gave questionnaires for the students to know their responses after they experienced group discussion. The observation was done twice and the questionnaires were given after the second discussion. Next, the data from two observations and questionnaires were gathered and described.
Based on the research findings, The implementation of group discussion at speaking I class at English Department of UMM run well. There are several steps implemented by the teacher in group discussion, they are; grouping the students, deciding the topics, discussing the topics, presenting the topics, sharing ideas, giving comments. Group discussion was also appropriate and effective to implement in that speaking class. It was probably because group discussion gave more space and opportunities for the students to discuss, solve problems, create solutions, provide ideas, and help each other. In group discussion, the students were more active. They participated actively in group discussion. All members of group discussion had chance to speak. In addition, because of their active participation in class, their self-esteem and understanding were getting better. They also could train their creative thinking. Moreover, after group discussion they had bravery to speak in front of their friends and team-work was sharpened.