Factors Influencing Verbal Communication Skills Among Undergraduate Students: A Case Study of the University of Malakand

Abstract

The focus of this study is to investigate the factors influencing verbal communication skills among undergraduate students at the University of Malakand, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, and responses were analyzed using both descriptive statistics and ordinal logistic regression. The analysis revealed that self-confidence, language proficiency, class participation, peer encouragement, and psychological factors significantly influence students' verbal communication skills. Among these, self-confidence and language proficiency were the strongest predictors, while a supportive learning environment further enhanced communicative proficiency. These findings highlight key areas for intervention that can help educators and policymakers design strategies to strengthen students' verbal communication skills and contribute to their overall academic and social development. The study not only contributes to the existing literature on communication and education but also provides practical insights for curriculum developers. Future research may extend this work by exploring the impact of digital learning tools and cross-cultural factors on communication skills.