FACTORS AFFECTING THE ORAL COMMUNICATION SKILLS IN ENGLISH OF THE FOURTH YEAR EDUCATION STUDENTS IN A PRIVATE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY – International Journal of Research in Education Humanities and Commerce

FACTORS AFFECTING THE ORAL COMMUNICATION SKILLS IN ENGLISH OF THE FOURTH YEAR EDUCATION STUDENTS IN A PRIVATE CATHOLIC UNIVERSITY

Author: Gretchen Mae P. Dela Cruz, LPT

ABSTRACT

Recognizing oral communication as a critical component of functional literacy. This study identifies the extent of the factors on the oral communication skills in English of fourth-year education students at a private Catholic university during the Academic Year 2020-2021 and analyzes the relationship between these factors and their proficiency levels. A descriptive research design was employed, involving thirty-seven (37) students. Data were collected using a survey questionnaire and analyzed using weighted mean and Pearson product-moment correlation. Results indicate that the overall oral communication skill of students was rated as “Good,” with strengths in addressing questions and clear pronunciation. However, areas like vocabulary, confidence, and grammatical accuracy require improvement. While factors such as practice, self-confidence, vocabulary, and school environment were identified as significantly affecting communication skills. Despite these findings, no significant relationship was found between the overall level of oral communication skills and the extent of factors affecting the students’ communication skills. The study concludes that while students demonstrate adequate communication skills, targeted interventions are essential to address weaknesses. Recommendations include integrating vocabulary-building activities, confidence-boosting exercises, and frequent opportunities for practical language use both inside and outside the classroom to enhance proficiency.

Keywords: oral communication skills, English, education, private catholic university

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