Students perceptions on the factors that influence their willingness to orally communicate in the EFL classroom in ecuadorian high schools

Abstract

Abstract: The present study was carried out to know how the factors that influence the willingness to orally communicate affect English language learners. This research seeks to determine if the students are motivated to participate in speaking activities, based on three main variables: motivation, personality, and proficiency level. The sample was selected from students who learn English as Foreign Language (EFL) in public high schools in Quito, Ecuador. Specifically, the survey was conducted on 100 students divided into five third-year high school courses. Finally, the research showed that the students were not motivated to speak in English class, that most of them did not feel encouraged to participate voluntarily in speaking activities, and that their limited proficiency level hampered their communication.