Abstract:

The fear of public speaking is considered to be the number one phobia among students (and people in general). I have been teaching public speaking and communication skills for more than 10 years at the American University in Dubai and throughout my experience, I was able to understand the fears that students go through and help them overcome those challenges.

Throughout my presentation, I will discuss the following points: case studies conducted on university students, the importance of public speaking, the skills it enhances and how to overcome this fear.

The first point: case studies conducted on 100 male and female students asking them to explain what causes the fear of public speaking.

The second point: I will go through the importance of speaking skills nowadays and the professional, personal and practical benefits it enhances, namely critical thinking, leadership skills, nonverbal skills, building confidence and improving communication skills.

The third point: I will give tips and advice to help students understand their nervousness and help them overcome the fear.

And finally, I will share fun and educational activities that teachers (and companies) can use to help their students (and employees).

Keywords:

Public Speaking, Communication Skills.