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STRATEGIES FOR ADDRESSING STUDENT ANXIETY IN SPEAKING
Berdiyeva Yulduz
Teacher, Journalism and mass communication university
ABSTRACT:
The article describes a range of evidence-based strategies for addressing student
anxiety associated with speaking. It examines the psychological underpinnings of anxiety, the
impact of anxiety on performance, and practical interventions that educators can implement to
foster a supportive learning environment. By focusing on gradual exposure, relaxation
techniques, peer support, and constructive feedback, this article provides a comprehensive
framework for helping students overcome their fears and develop confident speaking skills.
Keywords:
student anxiety, speaking skills, foreign language learning, classroom strategies,
affective filter, confidence building, oral communication, language pedagogy.
INTRODUCTION
Public speaking is an essential skill in various academic and professional contexts, especially in
journalism, where effective communication is paramount. However, many students experience
anxiety when faced with speaking in front of an audience. This anxiety can hinder their
performance, diminish their confidence, and impact their overall educational experience.
Understanding and addressing this anxiety is crucial for educators aiming to cultivate effective
communicators.
Public speaking anxiety, often referred to as glossophobia, is a common form of social anxiety
characterized by intense fear or apprehension about speaking in front of others. This anxiety can
manifest in various ways, including physical symptoms (e.g., sweating, trembling), cognitive
distortions (e.g., fear of judgment), and behavioral avoidance (e.g., skipping presentations).
Speaking anxiety among students, particularly in language classrooms, often originates from
deep-seated psychological factors. Understanding these root causes is the first step toward
creating effective pedagogical solutions.
One of the most prevalent sources of anxiety is the anticipation of judgment by peers or
instructors. Students may fear making mistakes, being laughed at, or perceived as incompetent,
which leads to self-consciousness and reluctance to participate.
Some students set unrealistically high standards for themselves. The need to perform flawlessly
becomes a barrier rather than a motivator, intensifying stress and impeding spontaneity in
speaking.
A single unpleasant experience, such as being corrected harshly or mocked, can have a long-
lasting impact on a student’s willingness to speak in public or classroom settings. These
experiences can create a mental block that hinders participation. Educators must recognize these
factors and address them sensitively to ensure that speaking becomes a skill to be developed
rather than a source of distress. Understanding these factors is essential for developing effective
strategies to mitigate anxiety.
Strategies for Addressing Anxiety
1. Creating a Supportive Environment
Establishing Ground Rules
Creating a classroom atmosphere that promotes respect and encouragement is crucial.
Establishing ground rules for communication can foster a safe space where students feel
comfortable expressing themselves.
Encouraging Peer Support
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Facilitating activities that build camaraderie among students can help reduce feelings of isolation.
Group discussions, team projects, and icebreaker activities can strengthen peer relationships and
create a supportive network.
2. Gradual Exposure
Starting Small
Introducing low-stakes speaking opportunities can help students acclimate to speaking in front of
others. Activities such as sharing opinions in pairs or small groups can serve as stepping stones
to larger presentations.
Icebreakers
Incorporating fun and informal speaking exercises can ease students into public speaking. These
activities can reduce anxiety by making the experience less daunting.
3. Teaching Relaxation Techniques
Breathing Exercises
Teaching students deep breathing techniques can help calm physiological symptoms of anxiety.
Simple exercises, such as inhaling for four counts and exhaling for six, can be effective in
reducing tension before speaking.
Visualization Techniques
Encouraging students to visualize successful speaking experiences can enhance their confidence.
Mental rehearsals can help them prepare for anticipated challenges and reduce anxiety.
4. Providing Clear Guidelines and Expectations
Structured Assignments
Providing detailed outlines and rubrics for speaking assignments can clarify expectations and
reduce uncertainty. Clear guidelines help students understand what is required, minimizing
anxiety related to the unknown.
Practice Sessions
Allowing students to practice their presentations in a supportive environment can build
confidence. Rehearsals in small groups can provide valuable feedback and reduce anxiety about
the final presentation.
5. Offering Constructive Feedback
Positive Reinforcement
Focusing on students' strengths before addressing areas for improvement can help build
confidence. Positive feedback encourages students to take risks and engage in the learning
process.
Specific and Actionable Feedback
Providing detailed and constructive feedback can help students understand how to improve their
speaking skills. Vague comments may be discouraging, while specific guidance fosters growth.
6. Incorporating Technology
Video Recording
Allowing students to record their practice sessions can provide valuable insights. Watching
themselves can help students identify strengths and areas for improvement in a less stressful
setting.
Online Platforms
Using virtual environments for presentations can offer an alternative to traditional public
speaking. Some students may feel more comfortable speaking in front of a camera, reducing
anxiety associated with live audiences.
7. Fostering a Growth Mindset
Normalizing Mistakes
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Emphasizing that mistakes are part of the learning process helps students understand that
perfection is not the goal. Sharing stories of successful journalists who overcame similar
challenges can inspire resilience.
Encouraging Self-Reflection
Prompting students to reflect on their speaking experiences allows them to recognize their
progress over time. Self-assessment can build confidence and help students internalize their
improvements.
8. Engaging in Role-Playing and Simulation
Real-World Scenarios
Using role-playing to simulate real-life journalistic scenarios can help students practice speaking
in a controlled environment. This method reduces anxiety by providing a familiar context for
speaking.
Mock Interviews
Conducting mock interviews allows students to practice speaking in professional contexts. This
experience builds skills while familiarizing them with the pressures of real interviews.
9. Providing Resources for Additional Support
Workshops and Seminars
Offering workshops focused on public speaking and anxiety management can provide students
with additional tools and techniques. External facilitators can offer specialized insights and
strategies.
Counseling Services
Encouraging students to seek support from campus counseling services is vital, especially for
those experiencing severe anxiety. Professional guidance can provide coping strategies and
therapeutic support.
10. Regular Check-Ins
One-on-One Meetings
Scheduling regular individual meetings with students to discuss their progress and concerns can
foster a supportive relationship. Personalized attention helps students feel valued and understood.
Anonymous Feedback
Utilizing anonymous surveys to gauge students' feelings of anxiety and gather suggestions for
improvement can inform instructional adjustments. Understanding student perspectives can
guide educators in refining their approaches.
Addressing student anxiety in speaking is essential for fostering a productive and supportive
learning environment. By implementing a range of evidence-based strategies, educators can help
students overcome their fears and develop the confidence necessary for effective communication.
A proactive approach not only benefits individual students but also contributes to a more
engaged and dynamic classroom atmosphere. Ultimately, equipping students with the skills to
manage anxiety will enhance their public speaking abilities and prepare them for successful
careers in journalism and beyond.
References:
1.
Beatty, M. J., & McCroskey, J. C. (1997). Communication Apprehension in Adolescents:
A Review of the Literature. Communication Research Reports, 14(2), 173-180.
2.
McCroskey, J. C. (2006). Communication Apprehension: A Key to Understanding and
Managing Anxiety in Public Speaking. Journal of Communication Education, 55(1), 1-12.
3.
Reddick, C. G. (2018). Teaching Communication Skills in the Digital Age: A Practical
Guide. New York: Springer.
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4.
Segrin, C., & Flora, J. (2005). Topics in Health Communication: Anxiety and
Communication. Health Communication, 18(1), 1-5.
5.
Tait, D. (2006). Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety: Tips for Students. Journal of
Educational Psychology, 98(1), 34-44.
