Selected Factors Influencing Self-Perception in English Communication Skills of Nursing Students at Mission Faculty of Nursing, Asia-Pacific International University, Thailand

Abstract

Speaking English skill in Thai students is still an important national problem. This study aimed to identify factors influencing self-perception in English communication skills of nursing students. A simple random sampling technique was used to recruit 70 junior nursing students. Research instrument was developed composing of demographic data: learners (13 items), learning and teaching (8 items), social (5 items) factor; and self-perception in English communication skills with respectable validity and reliability. Data analysis was examined by using descriptive statistics and Stepwise multiple regression analysis. The results revealed the most significant predictor of self-perception in English communication skills accounting for 39.9% variance is learner factor relating to confidence in speaking English with others. This model composing of learner (2 items), learning and teaching (3 items), and social (2 items) factors, accounts for 71.4 % of the overall variance. Findings suggested that instructors and administrators develop strategies to promote students’ confidence in expressing English with teachers and others, supply adequate materials, develop interesting teaching and learning method, and provide international environment for practicing English both inside and outside the classroom.