Students’ Perception of Self-Confidence in Speaking English as a Foreign Language in the Classroom

Abstract

This study aimed to explore students' perceptions of self-confidence in speaking English as a foreign language within classroom settings. Utilizing qualitative methods, data were collected through administration of questionnaires to 5^th semester students of Technology and Information System Study Program at Institut Teknology Sawit Indonesia (ITSI) Medan intake 2025-2026. Then, the study applied Miles, Huberman and Saldana’s steps (2014) in analysing the data. The results showed that most students had positive and good perception of self-confidence in speaking English in the classroom. Moreover, it revealed that self-confidence significantly influences students' willingness to engage in spoken communication. Factors contributing to self-confidence include supportive classroom environments, peer interactions, and effective teaching strategies. Furthermore, the study highlights the importance of fostering a positive atmosphere that encourages risk-taking in language use, ultimately enhancing students' speaking abilities. Implications for educators include the need to implement practices that build self-confidence and promote active participation in language learning.

Keywords: perception, self-confidence, speaking, English