Our Unit 871 Instructor, Isaac, provides insights into how oral presentations are key to boosting confidence in language learning.
At Unit 871, just like any classroom, oral presentation confidence is more than a soft skill—it’s a cornerstone of effective learning. Trainees must speak clearly, organize ideas, and engage audiences. Yet many struggle with anxiety and low self-belief, especially when English is a foreign language. This was apparent in a recent public speaking assignment within Class Charlie. To address this, educators must design instruction that builds both skill and confidence.
Attitude Shapes Performance
Recent research shows that TEFL trainees hold highly favorable attitudes toward oral presentations. They value the skill, enjoy presenting, and believe it improves their teaching. This positive mindset lays the foundation for growth. When students feel motivated, they participate more actively and take ownership of their learning.
Self-Efficacy Drives Success
Despite strong attitudes, trainees often report only moderate oral presentation confidence. Limited English proficiency and lack of practice contribute to this gap. Educators can close it by focusing on self-efficacy—the belief in one’s ability to succeed. Structured support, rehearsal opportunities, and peer feedback all help students feel more capable.
Strategies That Work
To build oral presentation confidence, all speaking activities should:
- Start small: Use pair and group presentations before whole-class speaking.
- Model excellence: Show examples of strong presentations and discuss what makes them effective.
- Encourage rehearsal: Let students practice and refine their delivery.
- Use feedback: Provide constructive comments and invite peer reviews.
- Teach structure: Help students organize their ideas with clear introductions, bodies, and conclusions.
These strategies empower students to take risks, reflect on progress, and grow as communicators.
The Link Between Belief and Performance
Studies have found a positive correlation between attitude and self-efficacy. In short, the more students enjoy presenting, the more confident they become. This insight reinforces the need to nurture both mindset and skill. When educators foster oral presentation confidence, they prepare trainees for real-world teaching. By the end of the speaking assignment, I believe my students had improved in their second language, as well as becoming more confident speakers.
Citation:
Gedamu, A. D., & Gezahegn, T. H. (2023). TEFL trainees’ attitude to and self-efficacy beliefs of academic oral presentation. Cogent Education, 10(1), 2163087. https://doi.org/10.1080/2331186X.2022.2163087