Students' Perspectives on Learning Speaking by Using PjBL in the Emancipated Curriculum Context

Abstract

Speaking is one of the most essential language skills in communication and plays an important role in supporting students’ academic success and readiness to face global challenges. In line with this need, the Indonesian government introduced the Emancipated Curriculum, which emphasizes student-centered learning, flexibility, and meaningful communication. One learning approach aligned with these principles is Project-Based Learning (PjBL). This study aimed to investigate students’ perspectives on learning speaking through PjBL in the Emancipated Curriculum context, particularly focusing on students’ learning experiences, teachers’ roles, and learning topics. This study employed a descriptive qualitative design. The participants were two eighth-grade students at a public junior high school in Jember, East Java, Indonesia, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis proposed by Braun and Clarke. The findings revealed three main themes. First, students perceived speaking learning through PjBL as a process involving emotional, social, and cognitive experiences, including enjoyment, nervousness, confidence development, supportive classroom environments, and various learning strategies. Second, students perceived that teachers played a crucial role as facilitators who guided the learning process, provided constructive feedback, motivated students, and created a positive learning atmosphere. Third, students perceived that contextual, relevant, and experience-based learning topics significantly supported the development of their speaking skills through meaningful interaction and engagement. Overall, the findings indicate that PjBL supports students’ speaking development, confidence, and participation while creating meaningful and student-centered learning experiences aligned with the principles of the Emancipated Curriculum.