LANGUAGE ANXIETY AMONG PAKISTANI UNDERGRADUATE EFL LEARNERS: A DESCRIPTIVE STUDY

Abstract

Language anxiety has been a huge obstacle in the learning process, particularly for undergraduate students, as English is taught as a second or foreign language in Pakistan. This study explored the key anxiety factors that hinder learners’ performance and negatively impact their academic careers, as many students experience foreign language anxiety in the classroom. Data were gathered through an online survey questionnaire consisting of open and closed-ended questions from BS English students, both males and females, studying at National University of Modern Languages Islamabad, Multan Campus. This research utilized a mixed-methods approach and designed the questionnaire based on the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS). The responses were analyzed employing Statistical Package for Social Sciences to determine mean, median, mode and standard deviations. Results revealed that the majority of students experience language anxiety during English language classes similarly various factors affect their learning outcomes. The current study also discussed participants’ responses and offered suggestions to alleviate their anxiety.  

Keywords: Foreign Language Anxiety, Anxiety Variables, English as Foreign Language Learners, English Language Classroom, Undergraduate Students