Constraints in English Speaking: A Case Study on Students of Teacher Training and Education Faculty, Riau University, Indonesia

Abstract

Recognize of the importance of English speaking ability, Teacher Training and Education Faculty (FKIP) Riau University has implemented English as a compulsory subject for all students since 2014. The focus of this subject is to improve students’ oral communication. However, it is not easy in obtaining good speaking ability. This research aims to descriptively identify the constraints faced by students in obtaining good speaking ability as well as to look for the solutions. The formulation of the problems to be addressed are: (1) What are the constraints faced by students in speaking? (2) What kinds of learning materials do the students want in order to they are able to improve their speaking ability? and (3) What kinds of teaching models should be used by the lecturers so that the students feel motivated to learn? This research was conducted during odd semester of academic year 2014-2015. In total 48 students from 16 available departments at Teacher Training and Education Faculty of Riau University were randomly chosen as the sample. The instrument used was a semi-structured interview, observation and documents observation. All the interviews were tape-recorded and transcribed word by word. The finding of the research shows that limited number of vocabulary, difficulties to understand grammar rules, do not have enough chances to speak English during the class, and poor environment for spoken communication in English outside class seem contributed to the students’ insufficient ability in speaking.