Students’ Experiences of the Adequacy of Public Discourse Subjects to Support Their Speaking Skill

This study investigates the experiences of second-year students at the School of Foreign Languages, Pingxiang University, regarding the adequacy of the public discourse subject and its impact on their speaking skills. The primary aim is to evaluate how effectively this course supports the development of students’ speaking abilities, fostering both confidence and communication skills. A qualitative descriptive research design was employed, utilizing purposive sampling to focus on ten students enrolled in the public discourse course during the 2023-2024 academic year. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, allowing for rich qualitative insights into students’ experiences. The findings reveal that students reported overwhelmingly positive experiences, highlighting significant improvements in confidence, clarity, fluency, and resilience. Participants noted that the structured environment empowered them to articulate their ideas more assertively and manage speaking anxiety effectively. Regular practice and constructive feedback emerged as critical components of their skill development, enabling students to refine their abilities. Furthermore, the course was deemed instrumental in cultivating resilience, equipping students to handle public speaking challenges and engage in respectful debates. This study contributes to understanding how public discourse education can enhance students’ speaking proficiencies and overall communication capabilities. Recommendations for enhancing the public discourse curriculum include regularly evaluating course content based on student feedback, introducing diverse speaking activities, and implementing structured feedback mechanisms. Additionally, integrating technology for self-assessment and establishing continuous development programs focused on advanced public speaking techniques are advised. In conclusion, while the public discourse subject has proven effective in enhancing speaking skills, these recommendations will further improve the curriculum, preparing students for future challenges in public speaking and communication. This research serves as a valuable reference for educators and administrators aiming to optimize public discourse education. Keywords: Public Discourse; Speaking Skills; Qualitative Research; Communication Education; P.R. China