Cultural factors of English language speaking anxiety among Malaysian undergraduate students in UTAR

• Main Author: Phon, Lok Yi
• Format: Final Year Project / Dissertation / Thesis
• Published: 2024
• Subjects: H Social Sciences (General); HT Communities. Classes. Races; P Philology. Linguistics; PE English
• Online Access: http://eprints.utar.edu.my/6507/1/2005630_FYP.pdf; http://eprints.utar.edu.my/6507/

This study investigates cultural factors that contribute to English speaking anxiety among undergraduate students at Malaysia's University Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR). Using a stratified sample strategy, 60 respondents from various faculties responded to a questionnaire delivered via Google Form to examine their English speaking anxiety and perceptions of cultural factors that influence English speaking anxiety. The data indicate that a sizable proportion of respondents experience moderate to high levels of anxiety when speaking English. Cultural factors such as language environment, social norms, parental methods of teaching, educational background, socioeconomic status, and language dominance in various regions are investigated for their influence on English speaking anxiety. The findings show an in-depth understanding of English speaking anxiety as impacted by cultural background. The study emphasises the need of addressing English speaking anxiety in order to enhance successful language acquisition and communication skills among undergraduate students. More research is needed to reduce English speaking anxiety and provide a supportive environment for language development.