Communication Obstacles and Student Engagement: A Case Study of Non-English Major Undergraduates at the University of Peshawar

Abstract

This study explores the communication barrier and their influence on students’ participation within the context of Computer Science Department, University of Peshawar through the lens of Muted Group Theory. The theory is developed by by Edwin and Shirley Ardener, reflects how dominant linguistic and cultural norm suppress marginalize voices and create discrimination. A total of 20 participants including 9 male and 11female students were selected for this study. Sixteen (16) undergraduate and (4) postgraduate Computer Science Department students participated in the open-ended questionnaire. Thematic analysis approach was implemented for data analysis. This paper explores the process and the value of culture in contexts of higher education where students from diverse linguistic and socio-economic backgrounds meet. Based on the findings, the result shows language problem, technical jargon, cultural hierarchies, fear of criticism and being judged, and fear of making mistakes, anxiety and gender dynamics in the classroom contribute to muted-ness make hurdles for students to fully participate in the academic setting. Moreover, findings show strategies recommended to overcomes these issues. The recommended strategies are training sessions, workshops, and self-efforts, work on building confidence level.

Keywords: Communication barriers, computer science students, undergraduate, postgraduate, Muted Group Theory