Non-Linguistic Challenges Faced by Malaysian Students in Enhancing Speaking Skills

Abstract

One important skill that second language learners find difficult to acquire is speaking skills. Despite learning English language in both primary and secondary school, students face challenges to speak the language confidently. The purpose of this study was to in investigate the non-linguistic challenges faced by Malaysian students in enhancing speaking skills. This quantitative study used a questionnaire consisting 20 items based on five Likert scales. The purposive sampling of form three students, and data were collected from 13 females and 17 males. The data were analysed through SPSS software that suggest most students experience speaking skill is difficult, anxiousness, lack of confidence, shyness and afraid of making mistakes while speaking. The findings could help teachers to understand students’ non-linguistics challenges in speaking skills and adapt various techniques to encourage students to speak in English language. It is suggested more studies need to be done to addressspea- king competency of students in Malaysian schools.