Abstract

This study aimed to identify and analyze the most significant challenges faced by first-year university English majors in developing their speaking skills. This study also explored the impact of those challenges on proficiency in English speaking skills and the practical strategies to overcome the challenges. The qualitative approach was adopted in this study, and semi-structured interviews were used to collect the data. The participants totaled twelve first-year students (6 male and 6 female students) from one of the universities in the English Department in Yemen. Thematic analysis was conducted to analyze the data. The results revealed that there were four barriers to developing their English speaking skills: linguistic, psychological, instructional, and environmental barriers. Furthermore, those barriers had a direct negative impact on students’ academic performance, motivation, budget, and personal and emotional well-being. In addition, to overcome the barriers and reduce the negative impact of the barriers, various strategies were employed by students, including a supportive learning environment, the use of technology in learning, and independent learning.