Abstract

This study explores the perceptions of Japanese English users regarding anxiety and confidence in their spoken English and examines the influence of the English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) perspective. Six Japanese English users participated in interviews, educational sessions, and a questionnaire to answer three research questions. The findings show that the participants experienced a significant amount of anxiety and confidence issues when speaking English, and all believed that the ELF perspective could reduce language anxiety and increase confidence. The study suggests that introducing the ELF perspective into Japanese English education could help reduce anxiety and enhance confidence for current and future English users. The research highlights the emotional effects of Japanese English education and the need for a change in the educational approach to improve confidence and reduce anxiety.