Learning to speak in public: Student challenges and coping strategies in higher education

Aneiya Isni Neliku Aprilia; Dewi  Puspitasari

doi:10.30595/pjh.v1i2.446

Authors

Aneiya Isni Neliku Aprilia UIN K.H. Abdurrahman Wahid Pekalongan
Dewi Puspitasari UIN KH Abdurrahman Wahid Pekalongan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.30595/pjh.v1i2.446

Keywords:

public speaking, Anxiety, solution, verbal and non verbal communication

Abstract

Public speaking competence is a critical skill in higher education, yet many students experience significant anxiety when required to speak in front of an audience. This study explores the challenges students face in a public speaking course and the coping strategies they employ to overcome them. The course integrates theoretical foundations with practical experiences, focusing on verbal and non-verbal communication, audience awareness, and structured presentation techniques. Through regular practice and guided reflection on emotional responses such as nervousness and anxiety, students learn to manage their apprehension, prepare systematically, and deliver persuasive messages effectively. The findings indicate that participation in the course not only enhances students’ communication competence but also strengthens their self-confidence and readiness for academic and professional communication contexts. By bridging theory and practice, the Public Speaking course provides a supportive learning environment that equips students with essential skills to navigate real-world communication challenges.

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