Breaking the Silence: The Role of Public Speaking Courses in Reducing Communication Apprehension among University Students--Insights from Dubai

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Bibliographic Details
Title: Breaking the Silence: The Role of Public Speaking Courses in Reducing Communication Apprehension among University Students--Insights from Dubai
Language: English
Authors: Madiha Hashmi (ORCID 0000-0002-3137-772X)
Source: Educational Process: International Journal. Article e2025064 2025 14.
Availability: UNIVERSITEPARK Limited. iTOWER Plaza (No61, 9th floor) Merkez Mh Akar Cd No3, Sisli, Istanbul, Turkey 34382. e-mail: editor@edupij.com; Web site: http://www.edupij.com/
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 13
Publication Date: 2025
Intended Audience: Teachers
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education
Postsecondary Education
Descriptors: Foreign Countries, Undergraduate Students, College Faculty, Private Colleges, Public Speaking, Communication (Thought Transfer), Anxiety, Student Attitudes, Curriculum Design, Instructional Development, Teaching Methods, International Schools
Geographic Terms: United Arab Emirates
ISSN: 2147-0901
2564-8020
Abstract: Background/purpose: This study sheds new light on communication apprehension (CA) by specifically analyzing the role of public speaking courses in addressing anxiety concerns among university students. It offers a nuanced understanding of student viewpoints within the context of a public speaking course in a non-Western setting. Methods/Materials: Focus groups--a methodology that has not been widely utilized in CA research--were used to understand student viewpoints. Focus group discussions were carried out using a semi-structured approach, using the Nominal Group Technique (NGT) at the start of the discussion. Thematic analysis was used to categorize recurring patterns in the data. Results: The dominant themes emerging from the study were labeled as "enhancers" and "diminishers" of public speaking anxiety. The research findings, especially sub-themes relating to grading and group work, are noteworthy, offering valuable insights into student perspectives. Conclusion: This study will aid educators in reimagining curriculum instruction and design. These findings have implications for the areas of oral communication, public speaking anxiety, and global higher education.
Abstractor: As Provided
Entry Date: 2025
Accession Number: EJ1463501
Database: ERIC
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