The Future of Education

This paper provides a comprehensive synthesis of recent research on discussion-based pedagogy in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms. Drawing on over 30 studies published between 2016 and 2025, it explores the theoretical underpinnings, implementation strategies, and challenges associated with discussion-based learning. The analysis identifies five main discussion types—critical, translanguaging, drama-based, task-based, and global or online discussions—and evaluates their impact on linguistic, cognitive, and affective domains. The paper situates these practices within the frameworks of Communicative Language Teaching (CLT), Sociocultural Theory (SCT), Interactional Competence Theory (ICT), and Translanguaging Pedagogy. Recent advances, including digital and AI-mediated discussions, are also examined to highlight their growing role in promoting communicative competence and intercultural awareness. Findings emphasize the importance of teacher training, contextual adaptability, and technology integration. The paper concludes with implications for practice and a call for longitudinal and AI-informed research in the evolving landscape of EFL education.

Keywords

Discussion-based pedagogy; English as a Foreign Language (EFL); Communicative Language Teaching (CLT); Sociocultural Theory (SCT); Translanguaging Pedagogy; AI-mediated learning.