Problems, Influencing Factors, and Coping Strategies in English Speaking of Silent Students at Private University in Malang

Abstract

The aim of this research was to investigate the speaking problems faced by EFL students, to identify the internal and external factors influencing their speaking performance, and to explore the coping strategies they employed to overcome those challenges.

This research applied a qualitative descriptive design. Three quiet students in the fourth to sixth semesters studying at the Islamic University of Malang were selected as participants. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the data that were gathered through semi-structured interviews

The findings revealed that students encountered persistent speaking problems such as grammar difficulties, limited vocabulary, pronunciation errors, fluency breakdowns, and reliance on translation from Indonesian before speaking. Internal factors including low confidence, fear of mistakes, and anxiety about negative evaluation further hindered their performance. External factors such as teacher feedback style, peer support, classroom atmosphere, and cultural pressure also influenced their willingness to speak. Despite these challenges, students employed multiple coping strategies. Cognitively, they rehearsed mentally, prepared notes, and translated ideas in advance. Behaviourally, they practiced speaking with peers, watched videos, recorded themselves, and wrote journals. Emotionally, they regulated anxiety through positive self-talk, breathing techniques, and visualization of supportive audiences. In conclusion, the study shows that students’ speaking difficulties result from the interplay of linguistic, psychological, and socio-cultural factors. Nevertheless, their use of coping strategies demonstrates resilience and learner autonomy. The study suggests that effective speaking instruction should integrate language competence, psychological support, and culturally sensitive approaches to help learners develop both confidence and fluency in English communication.

Keywords: Speaking Problems, Internal and External factors, Coping Strategies, EFL Learners