Students’ Perceptions of Their Confidence in Speaking English in the Classroom Context

Abstract

Speaking is one of the most essential yet challenging skills for English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners, particularly in contexts where opportunities to use English outside the classroom are limited. Many junior high school students experience low confidence in speaking due to fear of making mistakes, peer evaluation, and limited speaking practice. Although previous studies have examined speaking anxiety, fewer have explored students’ perceptions of the factors influencing their speaking confidence at the lower secondary level. Therefore, this study aims to explore Grade 9 students’ perceptions of their confidence in speaking English and identify the factors shaping their self-assurance. This study employed a qualitative descriptive approach involving five Grade 9 students from a junior high school in Karawang, Indonesia, who were selected purposively during the researcher’s teaching practicum. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that students’ speaking confidence was influenced by fear of making mistakes, peer judgment, teacher support, and self-practice. Positive teacher feedback and successful speaking experiences enhanced students’ motivation and confidence. These findings highlight that speaking confidence is shaped by linguistic, emotional, and social factors within the EFL classroom.