Investigation into the Source of Students’ English Speaking Difficulties

Abstract

English speaking skill is one of the four main language skills. Most learners who learn English as a foreign language face speaking difficulties. For this reason, this study aims to investigate the main source of students’ English speaking difficulties at Rift Valley University. A simple random sampling technique was employed to choose 70 students. A questionnaire was utilized to collect primary data. Classroom observation was an additional tool to gather data on how students communicate in English and observe teachers' methods of teaching speaking skills. The results identified five major sources of students’ English speaking difficulties: teachers' related problems (traditional teaching method, poor English proficiency, poor classroom management), students’ related problems (lack of practice, lack of interest, mother tongue), overcrowded classrooms, poor course material design and absence of internet access. This study is significant for learners, instructors and syllabus developers.