The Effect of Public Speaking Training on Nigerian Syntax: A Case Study of University Debates
- Project Research
- 1-5 Chapters
- Abstract : Available
- Table of Content: Available
- Reference Style:
- Recommended for :
- NGN 5000
Background of the Study
University debates in Nigeria serve as platforms for developing and showcasing effective communication skills. Public speaking training in these contexts plays a critical role in shaping the syntactic choices of participants. Through structured practice and feedback, students often learn to refine their sentence structures, use persuasive language, and employ varied syntactic constructions to enhance clarity and impact (Eze, 2023). This study examines how public speaking training influences the syntax of debate speeches in Nigerian universities. By analyzing debate transcripts before and after training interventions, the research explores the transformation in sentence complexity, use of subordinate clauses, and overall grammatical precision. The study also considers how exposure to formal debate formats and coaching from experienced speakers contributes to the standardization and innovation of syntax among students. In addition, it investigates whether improved syntactic performance correlates with better audience engagement and debate outcomes (Onyema, 2024). Employing both qualitative and quantitative methods, this research aims to highlight the pedagogical benefits of public speaking training and propose recommendations for curriculum enhancements in university communication programs (Akinyi, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Although public speaking training is widely recognized as beneficial for communication, its specific impact on syntactic development in university debates has not been thoroughly examined. Many students struggle with maintaining syntactic clarity and complexity under the pressures of live debate, which can undermine their arguments and overall performance (Eze, 2023). The lack of empirical research on how training interventions affect syntactic choices creates a gap in our understanding of effective communication pedagogy. Without concrete evidence of improvement, it is challenging for educators to justify the integration of specialized public speaking modules into debate curricula (Onyema, 2024). This study seeks to address these issues by investigating the syntactic changes brought about by public speaking training, offering insights for educational reform (Akinyi, 2025).
Objectives of the Study:
-
To assess the syntactic changes in university debate speeches following public speaking training.
-
To identify the key syntactic features improved through training.
-
To recommend strategies for incorporating effective public speaking modules into university curricula.
Research Questions:
-
What syntactic improvements are observed in debate speeches after public speaking training?
-
How does training influence the complexity and clarity of syntax in debates?
-
What pedagogical strategies can further enhance syntactic performance in public speaking?
Significance of the Study
This study is significant as it examines the role of public speaking training in enhancing syntactic performance among university debaters. By providing empirical evidence of syntactic improvements, the research supports the integration of specialized training programs into communication curricula. The findings will benefit educators, debate coaches, and students, ultimately contributing to more effective public discourse and improved academic debate outcomes (Akinyi, 2025).
Scope and Limitations of the Study:
This study is limited to analyzing syntactic features in debate speeches from selected Nigerian universities. It does not extend to other forms of public speaking or non-academic contexts, and the findings are based on a specific training program.
Definitions of Terms:
-
Syntax: The set of rules that govern sentence structure.
-
Public Speaking Training: Instruction aimed at improving oral communication skills.
-
University Debates: Formal argumentative discussions held in academic settings.
Related Project Materials
An Investigation into the Impact of Digital Forensics in Cybersecurity Management: A Case Study of Telecom Firms in Nasarawa State
Background of the Study
Digital forensics has become an integral component of cybersecurity management, enabling organizations to investi...
LEKKI SHOOTINGS AND THE VIOLATION OF HUMAN RIGHTS: A QUALITATIVE REVIEW OF THE ENDSARS PROTEST
ABTRACT
Individuals in every country are entitled to enjoy certain priledges which are not just...
EFFECTS OF INSURGENCY ON CROP FARMING ACTIVITIES OF RURAL WOMEN IN ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA
ABSTRACT
The study analyzed the effect of insurgency on crop farming activities of rural women in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Multi-stage sam...
An examination of recruitment innovation on enhancing workforce quality in banking: a case study of Zenith Bank
Background of the Study
In today’s rapidly evolving financial sector, workforce quality has emerged as a critical de...
The Role of Financial Technology in Improving Accounting Practices in Nigerian SMEs: A Case Study of SMEs in Port Harcourt
Background of the Study
Financial technology (fintech) has become a cornerstone of modern business operations, enabling...
An Appraisal of the Role of Word-of-Mouth in Retail Banking Customer Acquisition: A Case Study of Fidelity Bank, Kogi State.
Background of the Study:
Word-of-mouth (WOM) remains one of the most influential forms of communication in shaping consumer behavior, par...
The Effectiveness of Newspaper Campaigns on Sanitation Practices in Maiduguri Local Government, Borno State
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Sanitation is crucial to public health, contributing significantly to the...
An Examination of Farmers' Knowledge and Perception of Climate Change and Its Effects on Health in Niger State
Background of the Study
Farmers are on the frontlines of climate change, experiencing its direct effects...
An Examination of Nurses’ Knowledge and Practices Regarding Enteral Nutrition in Critically Ill Patients at Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi
Background of the Study
Enteral nutrition (EN) is a critical intervention for patients who are unable to meet their nutritional needs ora...
The Effectiveness of Radio Campaigns in Promoting Adult Literacy in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council, Borno State
Chapter One: Introduction
1.1 Background of the Study
Adult literacy remains a significant chall...
