In an effort to determine how many West Virginia students were receiving specific instruction in the skills of speaking and listening, a survey of college introductory speech communication classes was devised. The survey, designed to determine whether separate courses or integrated skill instruction within English/language arts classes were being provided, was administered to undergraduates in seven West Virginia higher education institutions who, for the most part, had completed their high school work since speaking and listening skills were included in the West Virginia High School Graduation Requirements. The data suggested that some English language arts teachers were sensitive to the graduate requirements and the subsequent English language arts curriculum actions by the West Virginia Department of Education. These results prompted the following recommendations: (1) all graduates of West Virginia high schools should receive specific instruction in speaking and listening skills; (2) all students need a development program in oral communication education; (3) all students need a qualified oral communication teacher; (4) all English teachers should receive proper inservice training until qualified oral communication teachers are available; (5) speaking and listening skills should be recognized as essential, deserving a year of special attention; and (6) speaking and listening skills should be included in a balanced curriculum. (HOD)