Abstract:

With an aim to determine the relationship between personality traits and self-efficacy perceptions of speaking skills of TFL learners, this study was conducted on 113 participants at C1 level according to European language portfolio and learning Turkish at two different TÖMER centers (Turkish and Foreign Languages Research and Application Center) in Gazi and Gaziantep Universities. This survey study has a quantitative research paradigm in nature because of the data collection tools and analysis procedures. As data collection tools “Big Five Factor Personality Inventory” and “Self-efficacy Perceptions of Speaking Skills Scale for Foreign Language Learners” were used. A simple multiple regression analysis was carried out to see which personality traits have predictive powers on self-efficacy perceptions of speaking skills of the participants. The results of the analysis revealed that there is a statistically significant relationship between extraversion and conscientiousness sub-dimensions and self-efficacy perceptions of speaking skills; furthermore, these two sub-dimensions appeared as powerful predictors of self-efficacy perceptions of speaking skills. On the other hand, the results revealed no significant relationship or predictive power of the other three sub-dimensions, openness to experience, agreeableness and neuroticism. In line with the results of the current study, some suggestions were given concerning implications for TFL professionals.

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