Bridging Fluency and Confidence: Public Speaking Clinic for EFL Female University Students

Author : Asma M. Abumalik

Abstract :Public speaking is a crucial skill for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) university students, significantly impacting their academic and professional success. EFL students often experience symptoms that interfere with effective communication when speaking in public. Mastering public speaking not only enhances communication abilities but also fosters self-confidence, which is often lacking among students with limited English proficiency. Research indicates that many students perceive their speaking skills as a primary weakness, hindering opportunities for further education and employment. Developing public speaking skills is thus essential for these students to thrive in a globalized environment. In 2017, a public speaking course was introduced at the college of languages, specifically in the applied linguistics department. This course significantly aided EFL students in developing vital skills, teaching them how to properly write, structure, and deliver speeches while minimizing anxiety associated with speaking English in public. The course enables students to express opinions professionally, present and support views effectively, and engage their audience – skills highly valued in the workplace for presentations, meetings, and interactions with colleagues and clients. Recognizing the importance of public speaking skills and the benefits of the course, a public speaking clinic for EFL university students was established in 2024. This clinic provides a safe, supportive environment where students can practice skills, receive constructive feedback, and work on specific areas of improvement. It offers personalized coaching, addressing challenges such as language barriers, shyness, low self-esteem, and speech anxiety. By providing ongoing support and resources, the clinic helps EFL students continuously refine their public speaking abilities, ensuring they are well prepared for academic and professional success in an English-speaking environment. The study will involve female students from the college of languages’ applied linguistics department, including those who have completed the public speaking course, those currently enrolled, and those about to take it. Participants will be asked about their views on the importance of public speaking,

Keywords :Public speaking, EFL students, self-confidence, language barriers, academic success, professional success, speech anxiety, personalized coaching

Conference Name :International Conference on Linguistics, Literature and Translation (ICLLT-25)

Conference Place Milan, Italy

Conference Date 25th Apr 2025