STUDENTS’ EXPERIENCES WITH PUBLIC SPEAKING IN EFL CONTEXTS: BARRIERS AND COPING MECHANISMS

Resti Amelinda Irianti Lukman; Hesty Widiastuty

Resti Amelinda Irianti Lukman Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta
Hesty Widiastuty Universitas Muhammadiyah Surakarta

Keywords: Public speaking, English as a Foreign Language, Barriers, Coping mechanisms, Anxiety

Abstract

Public speaking is an important skill often taught in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) contexts. However, many students face various challenges when performing public speaking tasks, which affect their performance and self-confidence. This study aims to explore students' experiences with public speaking in EFL contexts, focusing on the barriers they encounter and the coping mechanisms they employ. Using a qualitative approach, this study involved in-depth interviews with a number of EFL students from diverse cultural and educational backgrounds. The results show that the main barriers students face include public speaking anxiety, limited vocabulary, pronunciation difficulties, and uncertainty about audience reactions. Additionally, external factors such as cultural differences and lack of support from instructors also contribute to students' lack of confidence. To overcome these barriers, students developed various coping mechanisms, such as thorough preparation of materials, practicing in front of friends, and seeking feedback from instructors and peers. Some students also reported the benefits of relaxation techniques and meditation to reduce anxiety. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for EFL instructors to design more effective learning experiences and support students in overcoming barriers to public speaking. The study also suggests that practice-based approaches and collaborative learning can help increase students' confidence and public speaking skills in EFL contexts.

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