Speaking tests in a foreign language can often make students feel anxious, hindering their ability to perform effectively and accurately demonstrate their language skills. This pilot study examines the use of anxiety reappraisal as a strategy to manage such anxiety and improve speaking performance during English speaking tests. The study involved 76 first-year nursing students enrolled in a 15-week general English course. Students were introduced to the anxiety reappraisal technique and were encouraged to reframe their nervousness as excitement before two speaking tests. Analysis of survey data and test results showed moderate improvements in speaking performance and composure after using the technique.
DUFF Nicholas (Tue,) studied this question.