A Quantitative Study on Undergraduate Students’ Confidence Levels in English Speaking in China: Investigating Influential Factors

Yueqian Liu

Abstract


This study employed quantitative research to investigate the English-speaking confidence of 129 Chinese undergraduate students and analyzed factors that affect their confidence. Using a Likert five-point scale of Self-confidence in English Speaking Performance Questionnaire (SCESPQ) developed by Griffee (1997), the findings revealed that most students have low confidence, with willing engagement identified as the key factor influencing oral proficiency. Despite possessing language skills, students struggle with confidence and motivation, reflecting psychological barriers like fear of making mistakes and anxiety. The study also found that oral confidence is unrelated to gender but is significantly linked to students' grade level, with fourth-year students exhibiting the lowest confidence. The results suggest that enhancing confidence and creating more opportunities for real-life communication are crucial. Implications for educators include fostering supportive environments and encouraging active participation to improve oral language skills.


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.22158/eltls.v6n5p100

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