English Speaking Skills

Abstract

The ability to speak fluently in English is important in many fields of education and employment. However, many learners find multiple reasons that hinder their ability. Among them, learners’ intrinsic motivation and extrinsic motivation to practice are crucial. Therefore, compulsion to attract undergraduates the learning based on intrinsic motivation cannot be taken for granted. Hence, this study reports the factors of learner motivation and amotivation among the undergraduates of the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences (FAHS), University of Ruhuna. The study was conducted among the present undergraduates of FAHS using a convenience sampling method following a computer aided web interviewing methodology. To determine the factors of motivation, a likert scale with 25 questions was used. Descriptive data analysis using statistical software, SPSS version 20 was employed to analyse 290 responses received. Responses received from Nursing, Medical Laboratory Science and Pharmacy undergraduates were 42.7%, 22.9% and 34.4% respectively. The majority (86.7%) of the responders accept speaking is the most difficult skill to develop. Similarly, 83.3% of the students believe speaking is the most interesting skill to improve. Less than 5% of undergraduates trust they are very good speakers at present.