Public speaking in a cross-cultural classroom environment: a survey of student attitudes and perceived needs

Abstract

<p>The purpose of this study was to gather evidence about whether or not students would be interested in taking the public speaking course in the cross-cultural format, and whether or not NNS would be likely to fit well in such a class with NS. To determine student interest in cross-cultural programming and perceived needs in the public speaking course, a survey was given to the students enrolled in speech communications 212 at Iowa State University during the spring semester of 2000. This study reports the findings and results of the Public Speaking and Cultural Perceptions Survey. Responses were collected from NS and NNS enrolled in the course and compared to determine similarities and differences between the two groups. Using this information, the study assessed the student attitudes toward cross-cultural programming and perceived needs in the public speaking course and made suggestions on how to use cross-cultural programming in the public speaking program at Iowa State. The study also provides a framework for further research on the effectiveness of cross-cultural programming.</p>