Exploring the Challenges Faced by English Major Students in Delivering Oral Presentations at Kabul University

Abstract

In today's academic environment, oral presentations are a challenge for many students; however, delivering them serves as a valuable communication skill. Several factors contribute to the student's poor performance. Therefore, this study aims to explore the challenges faced by English major students in delivering oral presentations at Kabul University, as well as to explore the strategies they use to improve their skills and the role of lecturers in developing these abilities. Through a descriptive quantitative research design, a fivepoint Likert-scale survey questionnaire was administered to 30 English major students at Kabul University, Afghanistan, in the Language and Literature Faculty, Department of English. Results revealed that students struggle mostly with limited preparation time, presentation anxiety, and discomfort with getting an unjust grade. Additionally, students employed several strategies to enhance their oral presentation skills, with the most commonly reported being boosting their confidence, observing other presentations, incorporating visual aids, and anticipating potential questions. Instructors played a crucial role in enhancing these skills by creating a supportive learning environment, ensuring sufficient preparation time, and providing students with grading rubrics. The study provides recommendations for students and teachers to develop strategies for improved communication and presentation skills.