The literature on how to develop competence in giving academic presentations (AP) (e.g. Zappa-Hollman, 2007) shows that apart from basic communication skills (i.e. the ability to speak accurately, fluently and appropriately), university students are expected to perform specific roles and develop advanced skills for intellectual exchange and the…

Discusses the difficulties faced by English-as-a-Second/Foreign-Language students who study at an English-medium university. Focuses on graduate students' oral needs and difficulties at the university of Hong Kong and argues that student needs should be systematically addressed to ensure students become effective communicators. (Author/VWL)