From madrasa to private university: English language anxiety among madrasa background students in Bangladesh

Abstract

English is an important medium of worldwide communication and is widely used in Bangladesh’s education system. However, learning or utilising a second language effectively is often hampered by language anxiety. This study investigates the causes of language anxiety, how it affects students, and potential ways to lessen anxiety in students from madrasas who are presently enrolled in private universities in Bangladesh. The Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS) and semi-structured interviews were used in a qualitative focused mixed-methods approach to gather data. The results show that participants had different levels of anxiety. The causes of their anxiety come from their educational background as they had a lack of exposure to English. The study also demonstrates that anxiety has a detrimental impact on involvement in class and academic achievement. However, students use coping mechanisms like online resources, and self-practice. The study suggests more speaking practice, bridge courses, and supportive classroom environments.