Social Intelligence and General Self-Efficacy as Predictors of Public Speaking Skills among University Students

Abstract

This study aimed to explore social intelligence and general self-efficacy as predictors of public speaking skills among university students. The study sample consisted of 403 participants (216 male and 187 female) randomly selected from Isra University and the University of Jordan. The results showed a higher influence of self-efficacy on students' public speaking skills than social intelligence. General self-efficacy and social intelligence showed a moderately significant association. Additionally, the findings revealed a positive but weak connection between general self-efficacy and public speaking skills. Also, the Pearson test detected a weak positive link between social intelligence and public speaking ability. Social intelligence and general self-efficacy were considered positive indicators of their public speaking skills. Finally, a statistically significant gender difference was detected among the participants' public speaking proficiency, though it was in favor of the male participants.