OVERVIEW OF THE STUDY
Rationale
The English language is essential for international communication and significantly influences education, economy, and politics This importance has led to a growing demand for English learning in Vietnam Today, English proficiency is crucial for everyone, particularly students, many of whom opt to major in English at university in hopes of securing good job opportunities after graduation.
In this day and age, presentation skills in general and English presentation skills in particular play an essential part to perform effective communication activities
Presentation skills are essential for effectively expressing opinions and achieving success in life, career, and business However, many college graduates today lack these fundamental skills needed for successful information presentation.
Many college courses necessitate presentations, yet students frequently receive little guidance on how to create them effectively Often, they lack constructive feedback to enhance their presentation skills Consequently, mastering the art of effective presentations emerges as a critical challenge for students.
Established in 2007, the English Faculty at Thuongmai University has achieved significant milestones in its development With a team of well-qualified teachers, the program offers comprehensive training in specialized knowledge, particularly in presentation skills English instructors play a crucial role in teaching students effective oral presentation techniques, which bridge the gap between theoretical language study and practical language use This practice not only enhances students' speaking abilities but also boosts their confidence in using English.
Mastering presentation skills is essential for students as it prepares them for future professional scenarios and fosters spontaneous discussions To achieve effective presentations, students should develop a range of competencies, including language proficiency, idea organization, clear and confident speech, and effective body language.
Many first-year English majors at Thuongmai University face challenges in developing effective presentation skills For these students, particularly newcomers, the art of presenting can feel unfamiliar and daunting Despite dedicating significant time and effort to their oral presentations, many do not achieve the desired results.
They have a lot of ideas, but they do not perform well in the class to attract the audience’s attention This is the reason why I chose to conduct a research entitled:
“A study on difficulties in presentation skills of first-year students at English Faculty, Thuongmai University and some suggested solutions”.
Previous studies
This section reviews previous studies focused on the challenges faced during oral presentations, highlighting the difficulties encountered and proposing potential solutions to address these issues.
Nurwahyuni (2019) in her study “Students Difficulties on Oral Presentation in
A study on classroom interaction among fifth-semester English Department students at Makassar Muhammadiyah University revealed several challenges faced by the students These challenges included anxiety, lack of confidence, mental blankness, difficulties in understanding the topic, issues with organizing their ideas, pressure from teachers' expectations, and struggles with time management.
Furthermore, anxiety and lack of confidence became the students' greatest fear, particularly when giving oral presentations
Ayman Hassan Abu El Enein (2011) studied “Difficulties Encountering English
A study on English majors at Al-Aqsa University revealed significant challenges in delivering academic oral presentations Over 58% of students agreed that speakers often lack cheerfulness and fail to smile while presenting Additionally, many presenters struggle with effectively using tools like LCD and PowerPoint, maintain insufficient eye contact with the audience, do not adhere to the speech objectives, and neglect to use appropriate transitional words and clear signals These issues highlight the difficulties faced by students in enhancing their presentation skills.
A study conducted by Nguyễn Thị Thúy in 2021 at Hai Phong Management and Technology University highlighted the inadequate oral presentation skills among first-year English majors and underscored the necessity of enhancing these skills The research proposed various extra activities to facilitate improvement, including practicing in front of a mirror, utilizing audiovisual materials, and encouraging audience interaction before concluding the presentation.
Aims of the study
English is increasingly recognized as a global language, essential for communication in a rapidly developing and integrating Vietnam It serves as a vital bridge for learners to connect with international partners and exchange knowledge Consequently, English education has become a priority in Vietnam's training systems However, the effectiveness of English teaching is hindered by an unsuitable curriculum that overly emphasizes language mechanics Many first-year English majors at Thuongmai University struggle with fluent presentations, primarily due to a lack of confidence and essential soft skills.
Effective oral presentations are crucial in academic settings and play a vital role in shaping future career paths This research aims to identify the challenges faced in developing oral presentation skills and the key factors influencing presentation performance, ultimately proposing potential solutions to enhance these skills.
The study was aimed at:
● Identifying the main difficulties in oral presentation skills encountered by first- year students at English Faculty, Thuongmai University
● Suggesting some possible solutions for English-majored freshmen to improve their presentation skills
In order to have a realistic view of difficulties encountered by first-year English majors at Thuongmai University, the researcher concerns three questions:
1 What factors affect the first-year English major student’s oral presentations?
2 What are the major difficulties in presentation skills faced by the first-year English major students at Thuongmai University?
3 What are possible solutions to improve presentation skills for the first-year English major students at Thuongmai University?
Research Subjects
Despite having a solid foundation in English, first-year English majors at Thuongmai University face challenges in delivering presentations This prompted the researcher to focus on the topic "Difficulties in Presentation Skills of First-Year Students at the English Faculty, Thuongmai University."
Scope of the study
This study focuses on the challenges faced by first-year students at the English Faculty of Thuongmai University when making oral presentations, due to constraints related to time, personal experience, and knowledge.
Research methodology
The researcher employed a quantitative research method, collecting data through an online questionnaire survey The analysis and interpretation of the quantitative data obtained from the questionnaires are detailed in the data analysis and research findings sections.
Organization of the study
The construction of this study consists of four parts as follow:
Chapter 1: Overview of the study
The introduction presents the rationale, the aims, the research subjects, the scope, the research methods and the organization of the study
This chapter explores the foundational literature related to speaking skills, communication abilities, and oral presentation techniques It emphasizes the significance of presentation skills in the context of learning English and identifies various factors that influence English learners' proficiency in delivering presentations.
Chapter 3: Data analysis and research findings
This part presents the research method and studies on the findings and discussion of the findings The chapter also shows the results of the survey questionnaires
The research gives the recommendations and suggested solutions for improving English presentation skills of first-year English majors at Thuongmai university
Limitations and suggestions for further study are also presented in this part.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Theoretical overview
In Vietnam, English is a mandatory subject across all educational levels and is regarded as a vital foreign language Mastering English involves developing four key skills: speaking, writing, listening, and reading Among these, speaking is often considered the most important, as proficiency in a language is typically associated with one's ability to speak it Unlike classroom speaking, which often relies on repetition, real-life communication involves creating original sentences and dialogues, highlighting the need for practical speaking skills in everyday situations.
Effective speaking involves understanding key elements like vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and intonation, all of which are interconnected Vocabulary plays a crucial role in communication, enabling speakers to articulate their ideas clearly and convey information effectively.
Effective communication in English relies on three key elements: grammar, pronunciation, and intonation Grammar provides the structural foundation for conveying messages clearly, ensuring that listeners can comprehend the information presented Pronunciation is crucial, as errors in articulating English words can lead to misunderstandings and disrupt communication Lastly, intonation plays a vital role in delivering messages effectively, enhancing the speaker's ability to engage the audience Mastering these elements significantly benefits students, particularly in developing their speaking skills, which in turn improves their overall presentation abilities and proficiency in the language.
Effective communication and presentation skills are closely linked, as strong presentation abilities enhance the quality of interaction with various audiences, including bosses, colleagues, friends, and teachers Mastering these skills allows presenters to engage more professionally and effectively, fostering better connections and understanding.
Communication is necessary for our daily lives because it allows us to exchange information, ideas, and thoughts between individuals or groups of people
Strong communication skills provide individuals with a significant competitive edge in their social interactions, relationships, and professional careers In today's job market, proficiency in English communication has emerged as a highly valued asset Those who excel in communication and presentation are more likely to secure job opportunities and promotions, enhancing their career trajectories.
2.1.3 The definition of oral presentation and oral presentation skills
Oral presentations are concise discussions aimed at conveying information or sparking dialogue among listeners Similar to short papers, they consist of an introduction, main body, and conclusion Defined as a "planned and rehearsed talk or speech" that is not memorized or read verbatim, oral presentations are delivered by one or more presenters to an audience.
Oral presentations are a common activity in language learning, where students present on a chosen or assigned topic A typical presentation comprises three key components: the introduction, body, and conclusion The introduction serves to introduce the topic and engage the audience, establishing the tone for the presentation The body contains the main points and supporting details, aiming to inform or persuade the audience with comprehensive information Finally, the conclusion summarizes the key points discussed in the body, reinforcing the overall message of the presentation.
Presentation skills are essential for delivering engaging and effective presentations to diverse audiences These skills involve merging pertinent information with various supporting tools to enhance content appeal and audience engagement Key aspects include the organization of the presentation, mastery of verbal and non-verbal communication, the quality of the content, required knowledge, and the use of technology to capture the audience's attention.
Oral presentations are a staple in university courses, often presented in tutorials or seminars, either individually or in groups, as noted by the University of Adelaide Typically, these presentations fall into two categories within the classroom environment.
Individual presentations allow a single presenter to develop and deliver content to an audience, fostering public speaking confidence among students This format encourages personal responsibility as students critically analyze material and respond to questions effectively.
Therefore, students can have a deeper understanding of the topic
Group presentations offer significant advantages by fostering teamwork among students as they collaborate to organize and prepare their content This collaborative effort promotes cooperation and allows for mutual feedback, enhancing the overall quality of the presentation Students can work on their presentations both during and outside of class, which helps them appreciate the value of teamwork while minimizing teacher intervention.
2.1.5 The important role of oral presentation in learning English
Oral presentations are a crucial and widely used activity in language classrooms, offering students valuable learning experiences and essential lifelong skills When properly guided and organized, these presentations not only enhance students' understanding across various subjects but also prepare them for future career opportunities.
Making presentations effectively in a proper way would improve not only students'
English-speaking abilities but also other skills like outlining a talk, organizing ideas, dealing with questions, etc
Oral presentations enhance students' public speaking abilities within their educational settings, which is advantageous for their future careers At university, students can articulate their messages effectively, requiring them to speak fluently and accurately without relying on notes This development of presentation skills not only boosts their confidence but also impresses lecturers, which can lead to better academic outcomes Similarly, strong presentation skills in the workplace can create more career opportunities, especially during job interviews or corporate meetings.
Equipping students with presentation skills serves as a significant confidence booster Research by Al Harun et al (2016) reveals that many Japanese and Bangladeshi students in higher education often feel shy and embarrassed when asked to speak in English, primarily due to their unfamiliarity with oral presentation techniques However, when these students successfully present in front of an audience, they experience a substantial increase in confidence, which can positively influence other aspects of their work (Emden & Becker).
In today's competitive job market, strong presentation skills are essential for students aspiring to secure high-paying positions in their ideal companies after graduation.
Factors affecting English learners’ presentation skills
Students' language proficiency significantly influences the success or failure of oral presentations Defined as an individual's ability to communicate effectively in a learned language, proficiency encompasses both linguistic and communicative competence Rod (1985) notes that proficiency reflects a learner's knowledge of the target language and is often compared to native speaker proficiency Understanding these aspects of language proficiency is crucial for enhancing students' presentation skills.
Language proficiency, defined as the ability to use a language effectively, can be assessed through specific criteria such as pronunciation, fluency, and accuracy Pronunciation is crucial for clear communication, as it aids listeners in understanding the speaker's message through proper intonation and stress Accuracy involves constructing grammatically correct sentences with appropriate vocabulary, while fluency refers to the ease and smoothness of language use, allowing speakers to read, write, and converse quickly and expressively Ultimately, these elements combine to reflect an individual's or group's actual language performance, serving as benchmarks for assessing English speaking proficiency.
Students' mental elements significantly impact their success in the classroom, particularly during oral presentations in a foreign language Research indicates that anxiety, apprehension, and nervousness are common among learners in these situations King (2002) identifies speech anxiety as a major barrier to effective presentations, stemming from a lack of confidence in language skills and fear of public embarrassment over mistakes Additionally, personality traits such as shyness and introversion often limit communication, preventing learners from reaching their goals and leading to a cycle of frustration.
According to King (2002), teaching students to deliver oral presentations is a demanding task for educators, requiring significant time and effort in lesson planning and teaching strategies Teachers must adopt a guiding role, fostering a supportive learning environment while enhancing their interaction skills and incorporating technology Their responsibilities extend beyond offering detailed guidelines and assisting with topic selection and research; they also include facilitating Question & Answer sessions, providing constructive feedback, and evaluating student performance.
In a classroom, students have to conduct an oral presentation under various conditions Performance conditions can affect speaking performance, including time limits, preparation, performance standard and the amount of support.
Characteristics of a good presentation
According to Comfort (1995), things that create an effective presentation are identified below:
- planning – have a clear structure and a sense of timing
- organization – have clear connections between the different parts or ideas
- information – make sure that it is interesting and relevant to the audience
- impact – make sure to have a strong introduction and conclusions
- use of natural spoken language
- use of pauses for emphasis
- use of strong, clear gestures for emphasis
- good eye contact with the audience
- positive, confident, and relaxed manner
- efficient, professional use of equipment
Difficulties in presentation skills
2.4.1 Difficulties in language skilsl English language proficiency:
Language proficiency, as defined by Wikipedia, is the ability to accurately use a language for effective communication in both production and comprehension English proficiency encompasses the skills to understand and create English, including reading and writing However, having extensive vocabulary and grammar knowledge alone does not equate to true proficiency Students lacking adequate English language proficiency often struggle to convey their ideas during presentations due to limited language skills This challenge is not new, but with dedicated effort, each student can overcome it through a diligent learning process.
2.4.2 Lack of presentation skills Time management:
Effective time management is crucial for students during presentations, as it ensures they adhere to the allotted time, demonstrating respect for their audience Failing to manage time can lead to anxiety and negatively impact the presenter's mental state, making it essential for speakers to start and finish their presentations on schedule.
It cannot be denied that teamwork plays an important role in group presentations
Effective teamwork is essential for successful presentation preparation, as a lack of collaboration can hinder productivity and diminish overall effectiveness When team members struggle to work together, it becomes challenging to align their efforts toward common goals, ultimately impacting the efficiency of task completion.
Effective body language is essential for delivering engaging presentations While some individuals may feel uncomfortable using body language in public, neglecting it can lead to a dull and unappealing presentation Without dynamic body language, presenters may struggle to connect with their audience, ultimately diminishing the impact of their message.
Visual aids play a crucial role in enhancing the success of presentations, with Microsoft PowerPoint being a popular choice in universities worldwide However, its low technological capability can hinder effective presentation performance Additionally, first-year students, as newcomers, often struggle to develop proficiency in creating PowerPoint slides, impacting their overall presentation skills.
MAJOR RESEARCH FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
Research methods
This study involved 52 freshman students from the English Faculty at Thuongmai University, who participated in a randomly distributed survey The questionnaire aimed to assess their current understanding of English and identify key challenges faced in developing presentation skills It included both single-choice and multiple-choice questions to provide a comprehensive context for the respondents, allowing them to select the most relevant answers based on their practical experiences.
In this research, a closed questionnaire was utilized as the primary instrument to ensure well-organized responses The researcher determined that employing a questionnaire is the most effective method for collecting, describing, and analyzing data regarding the challenges students face during oral presentations.
A survey questionnaire was administered to 52 first-year English majors to gather quantitative data for analysis and reporting The questionnaire comprised three sections: the first focused on personal information, including students' emails, classifications, prior domicile, years of English study, daily learning time, usage of English and presentation skills, interest in presentation activities, attitudes toward the importance of oral presentation skills, and self-evaluations of their presentation performances The second section aimed to identify factors influencing their oral presentations in the classroom, while the third addressed the challenges faced by these students in developing presentation skills Additionally, a final question invited suggestions for improving their presentation abilities The questionnaire, written in English, allowed students to respond in either English or Vietnamese for open-ended questions, and included examples to clarify any potentially ambiguous items.
The questionnaires were developed through a thorough review of relevant documents and the researcher's personal insights Following extensive evaluation, the initial version, which included several contradictory elements, was refined to better align with the needs of first-year English majors at Thuongmai University.
In response to the pandemic, a survey questionnaire was distributed online to first-year English major students to assess their challenges in presentation skills and explore potential solutions for improvement The researcher clearly outlined the questionnaire's objectives, leading to the collection of responses from 52 participants within a few days.
All of the students were asked to provide truthful answers to contribute to the research results.
Data analysis
In this chapter, the researcher presents the findings from the analysis of data collected through participant questionnaires Utilizing a quantitative method supported by Microsoft Excel, the researcher selected this approach to determine the sample and formulate relevant questions The statistical analysis focused on numerical descriptions, with the results visually represented in charts and diagrams.
Research Findings
3.3.1 Current status of presentation skills of first-year students at English Faculty, Thuongmai University
First-year English majors recognize the significance of presentation skills and express some interest in presenting in class, as indicated by survey results However, many perceive presentations merely as a mandatory course requirement, leading to a lack of enthusiasm Despite having a solid foundation in English and actively practicing the language, students face various challenges that hinder their performance during presentations The researcher will explore these difficulties and identify key factors impacting the presentation abilities of first-year English-majored students in the following section.
3.3.2 The result of the survey questionnaire 3.3.2.1 General information
A study of 52 first-year English faculty students revealed a diverse background in English education, with 35 students hailing from urban areas with favorable learning conditions, while 17 came from rural regions with limited opportunities Survey responses indicated that 40 students had studied English for over seven years, 6 for 5-7 years, and 4 for 2-4 years, suggesting a solid foundation in the language However, only 2 students reported studying English for less than a year, possibly indicating a shift in focus due to dissatisfaction with their chosen major.
A recent survey conducted among freshmen at Thuongmai University revealed a strong recognition of the importance of English, with students dedicating at least one hour daily to studying the language Out of 52 participants, only 19% spent over three hours on English, while 16% studied for two to three hours, and 42% engaged in one to two hours of learning each day Acknowledging the significance of English proficiency is crucial for students, as it opens up greater career opportunities and enhances their competitiveness in today's job market However, 23% of the students still face challenges in their language acquisition journey.
52 students seemed not to follow the active learning strategies as they spent just less than one hour per day on English studying
Obviously, spending time studying English for 3 hours or more surely makes the skills of most students much better than non-major students
3.3.2.2 English and presentation skills usage of first-year English-majored students Question 6 How can English be used in your daily life and study?
Chart 3.1 First-year English-majored students’ English usage
The chart presents the various ways English is utilized at Thuongmai University, highlighting activities such as presentations, speaking contests, lessons, and communication with foreigners A significant 88.5% of English faculty students frequently use English across all subjects, while 82.7% report its regular use in presentations, which effectively enhances their language skills by integrating specialized knowledge Additionally, a considerable number of students engage in speaking contests, communication with foreigners, and daily conversations with friends, accounting for 55.8%, 57.7%, and 15.4%, respectively Notably, first-year students are actively involved in extracurricular activities beyond their classroom learning.
Freshmen have ample time to explore part-time job opportunities that involve English communication with foreigners, helping them gradually enhance their language skills Participating in speaking or presentation contests is an exciting way for students to challenge themselves and improve their English proficiency Engaging in various presentation activities not only boosts their language abilities but also develops essential soft skills Ultimately, these experiences will significantly benefit their future careers, as English continues to gain importance in today's global landscape.
Question 7 How often do you use presentation skills in your study?
Chart 3.2 First-year English-majored students’ presentation skills usage
Chart 3.2 showed the frequency of first-year English majors’ presentation skills usage As shown in the chart, the highest number of students (51,9%) confirmed that they applied presentation skills only on discussion days Meanwhile, 26,9 % of them showed the result of using presentation skills sometimes and 17,3% used these skills in every lesson at school In this day and age, developing and maintaining good presentation skills are considered one of the keys to success in different aspects of life That is why most of the subjects in the English faculty’s curriculum require students to have one or more than one presentations By effectively using presentation skills, a student's speech could deliver the information clearly and get the message across to the teacher and get high marks as well as valuable feedback on discussion days Everyone actually becomes more enthusiastic and puts more effort into their presentation as it would make a great contribution to their final semester result For the choice of “every lesson”, students get to use presentation skills whenever they want to transfer the information such as answering the teacher’s question, quick preparation for new lessons in front of the class, etc
3.3.2.3 First-year English-majored students’ attitude towards presentation skills Question 8 Are you interested in giving an oral presentation in class?
Chart 3.3 First-year English-majored students’ level of interest in giving an oral presentation
Pie chart 3.3 illustrates the interest level of English-majored freshmen in making presentations, revealing that 50% of students expressed a keen interest in delivering presentations, while 3.8% indicated they were very interested This enthusiasm highlights their awareness of the significance and excitement associated with English oral presentations In today's society, strong presentation skills are essential across various life aspects, and improving these skills can enhance future opportunities Ultimately, proficiency in English correlates with a better quality of life.
A significant 42.3% of students felt neutral about presentations, viewing them as a mandatory aspect of every class, which can be particularly daunting for newcomers Meanwhile, 3.8% expressed a lack of interest in presenting, suggesting a general disregard for developing oral presentation skills in school This may be attributed to challenges in delivering presentations and inadequate skill development Additionally, the effectiveness of the English major curriculum has come into question, as it appears overly focused on language rather than practical presentation skills Nonetheless, the majority of participants displayed a positive attitude towards presentations and expressed a willingness to enhance their skills.
3.3.2.4 First-year English-majored students’ perceptions of the necessity of oral presentation skills
Question 9 Many students believe that English presentation skills are very necessary for their study What's your opinion?
Chart 3.4 First-year English-majored students’ perception of the necessity of oral presentation skills
A recent survey revealed that all students recognize the importance of oral presentation skills, with half agreeing and half strongly agreeing that English presentation skills are essential for their studies These skills are crucial for enhancing their speaking and reading abilities, as well as for logically organizing ideas Furthermore, the relevance of these skills extends to professional environments, prompting students to seek numerous opportunities for practice in class They value the feedback and guidance provided by their teachers and peers during presentations.
Improving presentation skills is essential, and participants recognized the importance of oral communication abilities They expressed a positive attitude towards enhancing these skills and showed a strong desire to practice and implement them effectively.
3.3.2.5 First-year English-majored students’ evaluations of their own presentation skills
Question 10 How would you rate your presentation skills?
Chart 3.5 Students’ evaluations of their own presentation skills
The above chart illustrated a self-evaluation of the presentation skills of students
Descriptive statistics revealed that many first-year university students struggled with presentation skills, with 69.2% rating their abilities as average after only a few practice lessons Additionally, 19.2% reported poor presentation competencies, while a small percentage, 7.7%, considered themselves good, and 3.8% rated their skills as very good.
It is essential for students to understand that teachers do not anticipate flawless English presentations, as excellence requires time and effort To enhance their presentation skills, students should engage in consistent practice and collaborate with peers across all classes Overall, the findings indicate that most students demonstrate an acceptable level of presentation ability.
The next part will present the factors affecting their presentations in the classroom
3.3.2.6 Factors affecting students’ oral presentation skills Question 11 What factors affect your oral presentation the most?
Chart 3.6 Factors affecting first-year English-majored students’ oral presentations
A recent survey of 52 students revealed several factors influencing their presentation skills The majority, 82.7% (43 students), identified "mental elements" as the most significant factor, while 73.1% (38 students) believed that language proficiency plays a crucial role in their speaking performance Additionally, 59.6% (31 students) acknowledged that pressure to perform could impact their results Preparation time was deemed important by 57.7% of respondents, and half of the students felt that listening ability significantly affects presentations Conversely, 48.1% of students recognized technology skills as a factor, and 38.5% thought listener support could influence their performance In contrast, physical setting and the teacher's role were considered less impactful, with only 30.8% and 32.7% of students, respectively, acknowledging their significance Notably, only 26.9% believed that preparation time could affect their presentations.
The study revealed that various factors significantly impact students' speaking performance, with mental elements being the most influential Students acknowledged that their presentation success is largely determined by cognitive factors, underscoring the importance of a relaxed state of mind for improved effectiveness Additionally, language proficiency emerged as the second most crucial factor, alongside the roles of mental elements and teachers, all of which align with the theoretical framework discussed in chapter 2.
Question 12 When giving a presentation in class you will feel?
Chart 3.7 First-year English-majored students’ feelings when making a presentation
A study on first-year students' emotions during class presentations revealed that 30.8% felt anxious and 7.7% experienced shyness In contrast, 19.2% reported feeling excited, while 42.3% experienced a neutral state The findings indicate that mental factors significantly influence presentation success, with careful preparation contributing to a majority of students feeling at ease Thorough preparation enhances self-confidence and motivation, leading to more effective presentations To improve their presentation experience, students should seek strategies to manage anxiety and other negative emotions, as these can hinder their performance.
3.3.2.7 Difficulties in presentation skills encountered by first-year English-majored students
Question 13 What are your difficulties in presentation skills?
Chart 3.8 Difficulties in presentation skills encountered by first-year English- majored students
The researcher analyzed the data and discovered some difficulties in developing the presentation capacity students had to encounter in the learning process The results were described in chart 3.8
RECOMMENDATIONS AND SUGGESTIONS
Summary of the study
This study investigates the challenges faced by first-year English majors at Thuongmai University regarding their oral presentation skills in the classroom To accomplish this, the researcher conducted a survey questionnaire The key findings reveal significant difficulties that students encounter during oral presentations.
Several factors significantly impact the presentation performance of first-year English majors, including mental elements, language proficiency, pressure to excel, time constraints, listening skills, technological competence, the teacher's role, and the physical environment These students face numerous challenges in developing their presentation skills, such as mental pressure, language barriers, inadequate preparation, poor time management, difficulties with visual aids, teamwork issues, limited use of body language, and problems with memorization To address these challenges, the researcher offers various suggestions aimed at enhancing students' presentation skills.
For students, it is necessary for them to practice with their friends or foreigners, develop the use of body language, ask for teacher’s feedback and join more speech contests.
General recommendations
In conclusion, overcoming challenges in oral presentation sessions is a shared responsibility between students and teachers A study examining the difficulties faced by first-year English majors at Thuongmai University has led to several recommendations to enhance their presentation skills.
To enhance students' presentation skills, Thuongmai University should regularly host practical courses, seminars, and workshops focused on oral presentation techniques These initiatives will significantly boost students' motivation, foster a sense of autonomy, and improve their communication abilities, ultimately leading to more effective presentation skills.
Thuongmai University should promote student involvement in extracurricular and community activities to enhance teamwork and communication skills Engaging in these activities provides students with valuable opportunities to develop their professional communication abilities in various environments, including academic and social settings By fostering strong communication skills, students significantly increase their chances of success in today's competitive society.
To foster student engagement, universities can organize presentation contests that motivate participation through appealing rewards By offering attractive incentives, these competitions can enhance students' involvement in valuable learning experiences.
To enhance students' academic performance, lecturers should focus on alleviating negative psychological factors by fostering a friendly and supportive classroom environment By adopting a patient and non-threatening attitude, teachers can help students overcome anxiety and shyness, encouraging them to view mistakes as a natural part of the learning process Providing clear instructions and ample guidance will further empower students to engage confidently in their studies without the fear of making errors.
To foster an effective English-speaking environment, teachers should encourage students to habitually use English in the classroom, provide access to English films and videos, and enhance the frequency of English usage during lessons This approach will significantly increase students' exposure to the language, promoting their overall language acquisition.
Teachers should foster a supportive learning environment that encourages students to reach out for help when facing challenges, such as difficulties with pronunciation, idea organization, or voice modulation It's essential for educators to recognize and encourage all students who are making genuine efforts, rather than only praising the most successful individuals Additionally, instead of comparing students to one another, teachers should focus on each student's progress by comparing their current performance to their previous presentations, promoting a more constructive and positive learning experience.
When assigning presentations, teachers should prioritize informing students about the evaluation criteria Providing this information helps students prepare more effectively by understanding what is expected of them By knowing the evaluation form in advance, students can align their presentations with the required standards, leading to better outcomes.
Some possible solutions to enhance presentation skills of first-year English
Students must recognize the significance of presentation skills in both their everyday lives and future careers within a globalized world This understanding can enhance their motivation to learn To improve students' presentation skills, several effective strategies are proposed by the researcher.
4.3.1 Practicing speaking and presenting more and more
English majors can enhance their speaking skills through daily conversations and rehearsing presentations both inside and outside the university Developing a habit of regular practice will make them more proactive in improving their language abilities Since expertise comes from practice, students can better control their speaking pace and reduce filler words like "uh" and "you know" by rehearsing in front of others For those who feel shy, practicing in front of a mirror can be equally beneficial This approach not only boosts confidence but also helps refine their material to focus on the most important points within the allotted time.
To become effective presenters, students must practice speaking and presenting fluently, which enhances their oral presentation skills and builds confidence While it's impossible to prepare for every unforeseen circumstance, early preparation is crucial for developing self-assurance Key elements of a successful presentation include thorough knowledge of the topic, effective visual aids, selecting a capable group presenter, and anticipating challenging questions.
4.3.3 Developing both verbal and non-verbal language
Students should focus more on both verbal and non-verbal language:
To enhance English language proficiency, particularly in pronunciation, stress, and intonation, students can utilize the shadowing technique Defined as an auditory tracking task that involves immediate vocalization of heard stimuli (Lambert, 1992), shadowing allows learners to listen to audio recordings while focusing on the speaker's pauses, stress patterns, and vocal inflections By repeatedly mimicking the rhythm and sounds, students can practice their speaking fluency effectively This method can be adapted to students' levels, allowing them to shadow with or without a transcript, making it an excellent tool for improving the physical aspects of fluency in English.
Students must recognize the significance of non-verbal communication in public speaking, including the effective use of body language, eye contact, gestures, posture, and facial expressions These non-verbal skills can be developed and refined by observing successful presenters and renowned speakers like Steve Jobs.
Participating in extracurricular activities both on and off campus can significantly enhance presentation skills Various programs, such as clubs, speech contests, and workshops led by experienced speakers, are designed to improve public speaking abilities A particularly popular option is TED Talks, which are concise presentations limited to 18 minutes on a wide range of topics These talks not only engage audiences but also serve as valuable learning resources for students, especially those majoring in English By utilizing TED Talk videos, students can gain insights from effective speeches, ultimately leading to improved presentation outcomes.
Engaging in activities that boost language skills fosters student confidence, leading to accelerated learning Additionally, exploring popular TED Talk videos can significantly enhance your skills, as their presentations are remarkable.
For example, students can watch videos of Sir Ken Robinson, Bill Gates, Casandra Brené Brown, and many other famous names
4.3.5 Videoing for the trial performance
First-year English majors often struggle with voice quality during presentations, particularly in areas such as volume, speed, fluency, clarity, and pronunciation To enhance their voice quality, students should practice in a controlled environment, recording their trials to self-evaluate or gather feedback from peers and instructors By reviewing their recorded performances, they can adjust their speaking volume, emphasize key points, and improve their time management skills for future presentations.
Students play a crucial role in evaluating their peers' presentations, as this practice enhances their learning experience Educational experts emphasize that peer assessment fosters learner autonomy, encouraging each student to take responsibility for their own learning journey Engaging in peer evaluation allows learners to develop a solid understanding of the elements and processes that contribute to an effective presentation.
Limitations and suggestions for further study
This study focuses on identifying activities to assist first-year English majors at Thuongmai University in improving their oral presentation skills However, due to time and resource constraints, the research is limited to a sample of only 52 freshmen and primarily addresses their challenges in presentation skills, excluding other language competencies such as reading, writing, and listening.
Future research should involve a larger student sample and encompass various English language skills to enhance learning outcomes It could focus on aspects such as the structure of academic presentations, evaluation criteria, and the social and psychological dynamics involved Additionally, examining the impact of academic oral presentations on overall academic performance is essential There is also a need to explore how foreign cultures influence the presentation styles of students studying abroad.
This study explored the challenges faced by first-year English majors at Thuongmai University in delivering presentations and proposed solutions to enhance their skills Findings revealed that students encountered various issues, including mental pressure, language proficiency, inadequate preparation, time management, visual aid usage, teamwork challenges, limited body language, and difficulties with memorization Additionally, multiple factors influenced their speaking performance To address these challenges, the researcher recommended that Thuongmai University implement more practical courses, organize seminars and workshops, host presentation contests, and create opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular and community activities.
Teachers should foster a supportive English-speaking environment that encourages students to practice speaking and presenting regularly By thoroughly preparing and developing both verbal and non-verbal communication skills, students can enhance their presentation abilities Participating in extra activities and utilizing video resources for trial performances will further contribute to their skill improvement.
In summary, strong oral presentation skills are crucial for students as they prepare for their future careers Mastering the art of effective presenting is challenging, which is why it is important for each student to proactively seek out suitable and practical strategies to enhance their presentation abilities.
In her 2021 doctoral dissertation, Nguyễn Thị Thúy conducted a study focused on enhancing the oral presentation skills of first-year English majors at Hai Phong Management and Technology University The research highlights the significance of extracurricular activities in fostering effective communication abilities among students in this academic setting.
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4 El Enein, Ayman Hassan Abu (2011), "Difficulties encountering English majors in giving academic oral presentations during class at Al-Aqsa University."
Unpublished Master’s thesis, Islamic University of Gaza
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13.https://www.adelaide.edu.au/writingcentre/sites/default/files/docs/learningguide- oralpresentations.pdf
This survey is part of my research titled "A Study on the Difficulties in Presentation Skills Among First-Year Students at the English Faculty, Thuongmai University." Your honest responses to this questionnaire are greatly valued Please note that all data collected will be kept confidential and used solely for research purposes Thank you for your valuable time!
Please circle the most appropriate to you or answer the questions:
2 Classification o Fresh (first year of college) o Sophomore (second year of college) o Junior (third year of college) o Senior (fourth year of college)
3 Place where you lived before university o Urban o Rural
4 How long have you been learning English? o Under 1 year o 2-4 years o 5-7 years o More than 7 years
5 How much time do you often spend learning English? o Less than 1 hour o 1-2 hours o 2-3 hours o More than 3 hours
6 How can English be used in your daily life and study? o Presentation o Speaking contest o Most of the lessons at the university o Communicating with foreigners o Daily conversations with your friends
7 How often do u use presentation skills in your study? o Every lesson o Sometimes o On discussion day o Never
8 Are u interested in giving an oral presentation in class? o Not interested o Normal o Interested o Very interested
9 Many students believe that English presentation skills are very necessary for their study What's your opinion? o Strongly agree o Agree o Disagree o Strongly disagree
10 How would you rate your presentation skills? o Very bad o Bad o Average o Good o Very good
II Factors affecting oral presentation skills
11 What factors affect your oral presentation skills? (You can have more than one choice) o Time for preparation o Pressure to perform well o Listeners’ support o Mental elements (confidence, anxiety, etc.) o Listening ability o Technology ability (Powerpoint, visual aids) o Physical setting o Teacher’s role o Language proficiency o Other factors
12 When giving a presentation in class you will feel? o Anxiety o Shy o Normal