Thesis Abstract

Semantic redundancy in students’ speeches refers to the phenomenon where students tend to repeat information or ideas in their oral presentations or discussions, often without adding new insights or value. This study aims to investigate the prevalence and potential impact of semantic redundancy in students’ speeches, with a focus on understanding the underlying reasons for this behavior and exploring strategies to address it. The research will employ a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of speech transcripts with qualitative interviews and observations. The study sample will consist of college students from diverse academic backgrounds, with a particular emphasis on students enrolled in communication and public speaking courses. Through the analysis of speech transcripts, the study will first identify patterns of semantic redundancy in students’ speeches, including common phrases, ideas, or information that are frequently repeated. This quantitative analysis will provide insights into the prevalence of semantic redundancy and its potential impact on audience engagement and comprehension. Qualitative interviews with students will delve deeper into the reasons behind semantic redundancy in their speeches. By exploring students’ perceptions, attitudes, and motivations related to speech preparation and delivery, the study aims to uncover underlying factors contributing to the repetition of information. Additionally, observations of students’ speeches in real-time settings will allow for a comprehensive understanding of how semantic redundancy manifests in practice. By examining non-verbal cues, delivery styles, and audience reactions, the study will shed light on the dynamics of semantic redundancy in students’ oral communication. Based on the findings, the study will propose practical strategies to help students minimize semantic redundancy in their speeches and enhance the effectiveness of their oral communication. These strategies may include guidance on speech planning and organization, coaching on effective delivery techniques, and feedback mechanisms to promote self-awareness and reflection. Overall, this research seeks to contribute to the existing literature on communication studies by exploring the phenomenon of semantic redundancy in students’ speeches. By examining both the quantitative patterns and qualitative insights related to this behavior, the study aims to offer valuable recommendations for educators, students, and communication professionals to improve the quality and impact of oral presentations in academic and professional settings.

Thesis Overview

1.0 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

This project is an attempt to study some of the semantic redundancies found in students’ speech. This is with a view to identify some long observed peculiarities in the use of redundancy in the students’ use of English.

In the context of language studies, semantics occupies the end continuum. Semantics is at the top level because it deals with communication and interpretation. The major problem is with the definition of the subject simply as the study of meaning. Meaning is the target/goal in language. In whatever we do, we try to get meaning. The challenge is trying to find the meaning of meaning itself

Ogden and Richard (1923) said the major problem in semantics is trying to control “what is meaning”.

This project work is concerned with the repetitions made by students while speaking.

However, any issue raised here would be considerably discussed and illustrated with adequate examples. Thus the findings of this work will on the other hand add to the existing literature(s) on semantic redundancy as a localized contribution to knowledge.

1.1 AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The aim of this project is to identify and analyze the features of redundancy in the speech of students of the Department of Mathematics of the Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto.

The specific objectives of this project are to:

i.            Determine the linguistic motivation for redundancy.

ii.            Establish a clear demarcation between samples of data taken and their Standard English version.

1.2 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The importance of clarity and correctness in communication cannot be over emphasized. Therefore, this work on semantic redundancy is desirable because it provides some insights into the prevalence of redundancy in the verbal interaction of the students selected as the subject of the project. More so, the findings of this work will not only contribute to the existing literature on semantic redundancy, but would help anyone who goes through this work to avoid tautology in their speech.