Investigating Self-Awareness and Speaking Ability Correlations in Secondary EFL Education

Nurmiati Nurmiati; Andi Mega Januarti Putri; Ahmad Junaedi

doi:10.31605/ilere.v1i1.3922

Nurmiati Nurmiati Universitas Sulawesi Barat
Andi Mega Januarti Putri Universitas Sulawesi Barat
Ahmad Junaedi Universitas Sulawesi Barat

DOI: https://doi.org/10.31605/ilere.v1i1.3922

Keywords: Correlation, EFL Learners, Secondary Education, Self-Awareness, Speaking

Abstract

This study investigates the correlation between self-awareness and English-speaking ability among second-grade students at SMAN 3 Majene, Indonesia. Employing a quantitative correlational design, the research examined 17 students selected through cluster random sampling from a population of 51. Data were collected using a self-awareness questionnaire assessing emotional awareness, self-assessment, and self-confidence, alongside a speaking ability test. Results revealed high levels of self-awareness among participants, with most reaching the "permanent" level, indicating strong self-reflection capabilities. Speaking abilities were predominantly rated as "good." However, statistical analysis showed a weak correlation between self-awareness and speaking ability, challenging the assumption of a direct link between these variables. This finding suggests that while self-awareness may contribute to internal motivation, it does not automatically translate to enhanced speaking performance in this EFL context. The study highlights the need for comprehensive pedagogical strategies that complement self-awareness development with targeted language instruction to improve EFL speaking skills effectively.

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