CLASSROOM ANXIETY IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE LEARNING AND ITS RELATIONSHIP TO ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE AMONG THAI SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS
ความวิตกกังวลในการเรียนภาษาอังกฤษและความสัมพันธ์กับผลสัมฤทธิ์ทางการเรียนของนักเรียนชั้นมัธยมศึกษาตอนปลายในประเทศไทย
Keywords:
Keywords: classroom anxiety, academic performance, English language learning, Thai secondary students, FLCAS.Abstract
Abstract
Strong English proficiency is crucial for Thailand to participate fully in global communication, access quality education, and foster economic progress. Unfortunately, many secondary school students in Thailand experience significant challenges in learning English, often linked to anxiety within the classroom environment. The present study sought to determine the correlation between classroom anxiety and academic achievement in English language acquisition among 60 secondary school students in Thailand (grades 10-12). Data collection tools included the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS) and official English grade records. The findings indicate that students experienced high levels of anxiety, particularly in areas such as communication anxiety and speaking situations, fear of negative evaluation, and test anxiety. Students showed the most significant anxiety when required to speak without preparation and when comparing themselves to peers. A statistically significant negative correlation (r = -0.341, p < 0.05) was found between anxiety levels and academic performance, suggesting that higher anxiety is associated with lower English achievement. Additionally, students with high anxiety tended to exhibit avoidance behaviors and negative attitudes toward English classes. The study highlights the urgent need for supportive, student-centered learning environments that address emotional barriers to language learning. Recommendations include incorporating more relaxed and interactive speaking opportunities, reducing exam pressure, and promoting constructive teacher feedback. These findings can inform teacher training, curriculum design, and school policies to enhance English language education in Thailand.
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