Motivation, Exposure, Speaking Anxiety and Learning Strategies as Predictors of English Language Skills and Overall Proficiency among the First Cycle Agronomy Students at Beni Higher Education
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47941/ejl.3724Keywords:
English Proficiency, Motivation, Speaking Anxiety, Learning Strategies, Higher EducationAbstract
Purpose: This study examines the relationship between student-related factors namely motivation, exposure to English, speaking anxiety, learning strategies and English language proficiency among agronomy students at Beni higher education. It also investigates how these factors relate to individual language skills and how the skills collectively predict the English language proficiency.
Methodology: A quantitative correlational design with a predictive component was employed. Data collected from 409 students using structured questionnaires and standardized English proficiency assessment aligned with the first cycle agronomy-level. Pearson correlation analysis examined associations between student-related factors and language skills, while multiple regression assessed the predictive contribution of speaking, reading, listening and writing to the overall proficiency (p< 0.05).
Findings: Motivation, exposure, low speaking anxiety and learning strategies were positively associated with listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Speaking showed the strongest correlation followed by listening, writing and reading. Regression analysis indicated that all four skills significantly predicted the English language proficiency, with speaking and reading contributing most strongly.
Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study extends the Second Language Acquisition Theory by integrating student-related variables in a single model. It informs policy by emphasizing learner support and strategy instruction. Finally, it guides practice by highlighting target interventions to enhance English proficiency.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Kakule Kavulikirwa Edmond, Prof. Tembue Zembele wa Ololo, Prof. Kambale Muhyana Baha Innocent, Prof. Malala Tambue David
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