Role of Self-Perceived Communication Competence and Communication Apprehension for Willingness to Communicate in L1 and L2

Abstract

Self-perceived communication competence (SPCC), communication apprehension (CA) and Willingness to communicate (WTC) are all well-researched constructs in language learning contexts. This research is an initiative to understand effects of SPCC and CA on WTC of Pakistani university students. Focusing on theoretical model in communication research by McCroskey and his colleagues, the current study draws upon quantitative data using three questionnaires from 88 language learners in a public sector Pakistani university and attempts to understand the role of SPCC and CA in enhancing the WTC of learners in multiple formal and informal contexts. Results suggest that acquaintance level with the participants and contexts of language use may be the important factors to effect WTC of learners for first/foreign language use. Findings of this research in formal context offer strong evidence that strong CA in one language can result in positive SPCC in the other language and becomes a reason to enhance WTC in that particular language. For informal context, there exists a positive relationship between SPCC and WTC in any particular language. If learners have a positive SPCC in one language, they demonstrate a strong WTC in the same language. Moreover, relationship of SPCC, CA and WTC depends a lot on degree of acquaintance that interlocutors share in formal context, however, there is lack of evidence in informal context to suggest any possible directions.

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