ISSN: 2226-6348
Open access
Public speaking is a critical competency for academic and professional success, yet many Open and Distance Learning (ODL) students face challenges in developing this skill due to limited face-to-face interaction and feedback opportunities. The increasing reliance on digital learning environments has positioned learning portals as an essential medium for delivering performance-based courses. However, the extent to which these portals influence students’ outcomes in public speaking assessments remains underexplored. This study investigates the relationship between learning portal usage and public speaking performance among ODL students. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed statistically. Results indicate a significant positive relationship between portal engagement and public speaking performance, with accessibility, interactivity, and usage frequency emerging as key predictors. The findings underscore the role of digital learning platforms in enhancing communication competencies and provide implications for optimizing portal design to support performance-based courses in ODL settings.
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