چكيده فارسي :
Abstract This paper describes an effort to assess the interrelation between levels of ambiguity tolerance and the frequency of communication strategy use in the EFL learning context. To this end, a total of 120 intermediate EFL learners were randomly selected as a homogeneous sample and were administered the Second Language Tolerance of Ambiguity Scale, followed by self-report Oral Communication Strategy Inventory on distinct occasions. The former revealed the degree to which each individual was tolerant/ intolerant of ambiguity, and the latter indicated the frequency at which subjects resorted to communication strategies as a means of dealing with linguistic deficiencies. Results of correlation analysis suggest that ambiguity tolerance, as a cognitive style, has a significant impact on the type and the frequency of the communication strategy selection. In addition, strategy frequencies indicated that subjects resorted to ten out of thirteen types of communication strategies classified by Dörnyei (1995). Among others, code-switching was the most commonly used communication strategy and word coinage was the least common. Further investigations revealed that different levels of ambiguity tolerance (i.e. high, mid, and low) significantly influenced the type and the frequency of communication strategy use and help facilitate communication as well. Thus, it may be implied that, in order to help ease communication, EFL learners need to be aware of different communication strategies in accordance to their differing levels of ambiguity tolerance.
