Exploring the Use of Discourse Markers in Students' Spoken Discourse

Abstract

Using discourse markers in speech is inevitable, as they characterize natural, spontaneous speech. However, excessive reliance on this compensatory strategy may affect both speakers and listeners. Grounded in the concept of strategic competence, this study investigates the frequency of discourse markers’ use among Moroccan EFL learners in spoken discourse. To achieve this, the occurrence of discourse markers was systematically quantified in participants' speech across different communicative contexts to determine their frequency of use. The findings indicated a tendency for discourse marker use to increase when learners discussed topics requiring less familiar domain-specific jargon. These findings contribute to a better understanding of strategic competence in the Moroccan context and offer insights into learners' spoken language production.