Triggers for Foreign Language Speaking Anxiety: Perceptions of Saudi EFL College Students

The primary aim of the present study is to investigate foreign language speaking anxiety (FLSA) levels and the factors triggering language speaking anxiety among Saudi EFL college learners. The study adopted a mixed-method approach to meet the research objectives. A Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS) questionnaire was employed. The sample of the study consisted of 39 male Saudi students at Al-Quaiyah College of Technology. Subsequently, eight of the most anxious students were identified based on the questionnaire results. The results revealed that the participants experienced a moderate level of FLSA in their English class. The participants reported several major causes of their speaking anxiety in the language class, such as a lack of preparation and vocabulary knowledge, forced participation, and other teacher-related factors. The study recommends that teachers should inform their students about what will be discussed in advance to help them become more prepared and less anxious. Moreover, teachers should encourage and motivate students to participate in oral activities instead of forcing them.