Determinants of Students’ Communication Confidence: Testing the Dewesia Conceptual Model in the Philippine Context

Communication confidence is widely recognized as one of the essential competencies in the twenty-first century because it enables learners to express ideas clearly, participate actively in discussions, and succeed in both academic and professional environments. In today’s knowledge-driven society, communication is not only a means of exchanging information but also a fundamental skill associated with critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving. Effective communication requires not only knowledge of language but also the confidence to communicate ideas appropriately in various situations. However, despite its importance, many students continue to experience communication anxiety, hesitation, mental blocking, and difficulty organizing their thoughts during oral communication activities. These challenges often limit students’ participation and reduce their ability to communicate effectively. Research has shown that communication confidence is closely associated with self-efficacy, in which individuals’ beliefs about their capabilities influence their communication performance.