Factors Affecting Learning and Building Confidence in Speaking English of Students in Bachelor of Arts Program in English at Buddhist University in the Northeastern Region

Abstract

             The objectives of this research were 1. to study the current status of learning and the development of confidence in speaking the English of students in Bachelor of Arts Program in English at Buddhist University in the northeastern region, 2. to investigate the factors affecting the development of confidence in speaking English of students in Bachelor of Arts Program in English at Buddhist University in the northeastern region, and 3. to propose a learning management model for the English language course in Bachelor of Arts Program in English at Buddhist University in the northeastern region. This research was a mixed-methods approach, with a sample of 289 participants for quantitative research and 5 key informant interviews for qualitative research. The research tools used a questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.86, structured interviews. The statistics analyses such as frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation for quantitative data, as well as content analysis for qualitative data.

             The research findings revealed the following:

1. The current status and confidence in English Speaking of students in Bachelor of Arts Program in English at Buddhist University in the Northeastern region in overall were at a high level. In general, it showed that the students were confidence English speaking but any sections confidence English speaking was lower than such as classroom learning activities. However, it considered the section that confidence was lower. It is recommended to address these areas to improve and enhance the teaching and learning processes in the future.
2. The factors affecting confidence in English speaking of students in Bachelor of Arts Program in English at Buddhist University in the northeastern region can be categorized into internal and external factors. Internal factors include 1) knowledge level in English, 2) ability to comprehend, and 3) confidence in learning skills. External factors comprise 1) support from teachers, 2) real-life English language usage, 3) exposure to media, and 4) support from family and friends.
3. The development approach of English language learning management at Buddhist University in the Northeastern region consists of five key components; 1) The provision of suitable and diverse supplementary learning materials, 2) the arrangement of classroom and learning environment conducive to learning, 3) the utilization of teaching techniques and media that stimulate students' interest in learning, 4) encouragement of out-of-classroom learning management, and 5) creating an environment and situations conducive to speaking practice.