A study on how to motivate 1st year English major students to speak at HPU

Abstract

The aims of this study are to discover effective methods for students to enhance their speaking ability, with a particular focus on assessing the current status of first-year English majors’ English speaking skills and offering suggestions for improving communication. This seeks to foster a more positive attitude toward speaking English, making the experience more enjoyable and engaging for students. It is anticipated that, through the implementation of these strategies, first-year English majors at HPU will begin to view speaking English not just as an academic requirement, but as an enjoyable and rewarding activity, possibly even one of their favorite pastimes. In achieving these aims, the study will explore motivational techniques and teaching practices that can effectively encourage students to participate more actively in speaking activities. By addressing factors such as fear of speaking, lack of confidence, and the hesitancy often seen in classrooms, the research intends to provide practical solutions that can be applied to the curriculum. The ultimate goal is to create a learning environment where students feel comfortable and motivated to practice their speaking skills, thereby improving their overall language proficiency and communication skills.