Difficulties encountered by first-year English - Korean majored students in learning speaking at HPU and some suggested solutions

Abstract

This study investigates the difficulties in learning speaking faced by first-year English–Korean majored students at Hai Phong University of Management and Technology (HPU). The research adopts a quantitative approach using a bilingual questionnaire to gather data on students’ perceptions, learning habits, and preferences for instructional support. Through a survey conducted with a certain number of students, the study identifies the most common linguistic barriers such as limited vocabulary, grammar interference, and reduced fluency, as well as psychological factors including anxiety and lack of confidence. Environmental constraints like limited speaking time, minimal feedback, and unsupportive classroom conditions were also reported. Based on the results, the study recommends solutions to help bilingual students learn speaking better. The findings also offer recommendations for teachers to improve their teaching methods effectively.