Analysing ESL Students’ Perceptions towards Oral Communication for Social and Occupational Purposes

Abstract

Fundamental principles of public speaking and appropriate organisational structure of ideas for occupational and social communication are vital aspects for undergraduates as a pathway to overcome employers' grievances on graduates' lack of communication skills (Malaysia Education Blueprint, 2015). This study was undertaken to explore the perceptions of a group of ten students at a tertiary institution in Malaysia to see how they utlise the theories and practice of effective communication skills beyond their course entitled "Oral Communication for Social and Occupational Purposes". Semistructured interviews were conducted with the participants. The study found that these students gained knowledge about effective communication for social and occupational purposes. The findings also indicate that students have benefitted in relation to communication in a formal way especially to higher authorities, and sharpening their communication and presentation skills. However, there were shortcomings that need to be addressed, particularly related to methods of teaching Oral Communication for Social and Occupational Purposes, time constraint in preparing for the tutorial sessions and producing a good quality video.

Investigating EFL Learners’ Perceptions towards the Difficulties in Oral Presentation at Kandahar University

“…The authors further stated that allowing learners to bring short notes will assist them to be prepared in terms of good flow and coherence of presentations. With proper preparation in mind, Husain, Ganapathy and Mohamad (2015) vividly recommended that there should be more time for learners to prepare and rehearse the presentations.…”

“…As per lecturer's role in oral presentations, Husain, Ganapathy and Mohamad (2015) elucidated that lecturer should allot enough time to learners for preparing their presentations and video record their own presentations. This will enable them to improve and ensure their oral presentation progress.…”