A comparative study of the views of social studies teachers and social studies teacher candidates in Türkiye regarding speaking anxiety

This study aimed to reveal the views of social studies teachers and prospective social studies teachers in Turkey regarding their speaking anxiety. The research utilized a phenomenological design, a qualitative research method. The study group consisted of 10 social studies teachers and 20 prospective social studies teachers from Turkey. Criterion sampling, a type of purposeful sampling, was used to select the study group, and participants were chosen from among social studies teachers and prospective teachers who reported experiencing speaking anxiety based on their own statements. A semi-structured interview form consisting of open-ended questions was used as the data collection tool. The data obtained from the semi- structured interview form were subjected to content analysis. The results showed that social studies teachers focused on difficulty in self-expression and fear of not being able to express themselves, while prospective social studies teachers experienced anxiety in terms of stress, tension, and feelings of inadequacy. Furthermore, both teachers and prospective teachers exhibited behavioral and affective responses such as speech impairment, tension, worry, and feeling under pressure when experiencing anxiety. The study revealed that anxiety leads to difficulties in self-expression, and preparation for the topic emerged as an effective coping mechanism. Based on the findings, it is recommended that practical courses on communication and oral expression skills be included in teacher training programs; that psycho-educational interventions be implemented to address the affective dimension of speech anxiety; and that practices be developed to strengthen prospective teachers' self-efficacy, and systematically impart planned speaking and topic preparation skills. Future research should examine speech anxiety using mixed-methods, including variables such as gender, length of professional experience, class level, and personality traits.