Challenges Encountered by College Students in Academic Writing

Abstract

Academic writing is a formal writing used by the students in the academic setting. This study explored the challenges encountered by college students in academic writing in one of the schools in Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental. This study utilized the qualitative approach using phenomenological design. The study participants included 15 students enrolled for the academic year 2022-2023, English majors for the second semester, and were selected through purposive sampling. The researcher used a researcher-made semi-structured interview guide to elicit data from the participants using Moustakas’ structured method of data analysis. Results revealed five themes: Difficulty in grammar and language usage; Difficulty in organizing information; Insufficient amount of reliable information; Encountering vocabulary difficulties; Dealing with time- constraints. This study concluded that students encountered difficulties in grammar and language usage, creating a coherent structure, finding relevant sources, choosing the right words, and allocating time. It is recommended that teachers should prioritize the teaching of the writing process and encourage students in regular reading. Future researchers are encouraged to conduct studies about academic writing strategies that must be effective for students.