Choices of Language Learning Strategies and English Proficiency of EFL University Learners
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Published:
Jul 20, 2021
Keywords:
language learning strategies Thai EFL learners academic clusters learning contexts
Main Article Content
Abstract
Language learning strategies (LLS) are conscious behaviours used by language learners to foster the acquisition, storage, and use of new information. This study investigated the LLS used by Thai EFL university students using a questionnaire based on Oxford’s (1990) LLS taxonomy. It also identified the relationship and the difference in LLS use across clusters of academic study. The participants were 1,523 first-year students enrolled in a general English course at a university. The findings showed that university students reported a moderate use of LLS. Affective strategies were used the most frequently, followed by metacognitive, compensation, cognitive, social and memory strategies, respectively. The analysis revealed that LLS were interrelated and that LLS use differed across academic clusters. The present study also revealed the relationship between learning strategy employment and English proficiency. Overall, the results demonstrate that the use of learning strategies among Thai university learners varies, depending on individual differences and contextual factors. The findings also suggest that learners would benefit greatly from training in the use of learning strategies. Additional qualitative research is needed to understand the learners’ selection of specific strategies within each category of strategies. Such research would provide further important pedagogical and theoretical implications.
Article Details
How to Cite
Sukying, A. (2021). Choices of Language Learning Strategies and English Proficiency of EFL University Learners. LEARN Journal: Language Education and Acquisition Research Network, 14(2), 59–87. Retrieved from https://so04.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/LEARN/article/view/253261
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Research Articles
References
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Bonyadi, A., Nikou, F., & Shahbaz, S. (2012). The relationship between EFL learners’ self-efficacy beliefs and their language learning strategy use. English Language Teaching, 5(8), 113-121.
Chamot, A. (2004) Issues in language learning strategy research and teaching. Electronic Journal of Foreign Language Teaching, 1(1), 14-26.
Chamot, A. (2005). Language learning strategy instruction: Current issues and research. Annual Review of Applied Linguistics, 25, 112-130.
Charoento, M. (2017). Individual learner differences and language learning strategies. Contemporary Educational Researches Journal, 7(2), 57-72.
Chen, M. (2009). Influence of grade level on perceptual learning style preferences and language learning strategies of Taiwanese English as a foreign language learners. Learning and Individual Differences, 19(2), 304-308.
Cohen, J. (1988). Statistical Power Analysis for the Behavioral Sciences (2nd edition). Erlbaum.
Cohen, A. (1998). Strategies in learning and using a second language. Longman.
Fitzpatrick, D. (2011). Making sense of the English language proficiency in Thailand: An exploration of teachers’ practices and dispositions. [Doctoral thesis, University of Exeter].
Foster, S., Sriphrom, C., & Nampanya, R. (2017). An investigation of language learning strategies used, gender and language proficiency among first-year students at Rajamangala University of Technology Isan. RMUTI Journal Humanities and Social Sciences, 4(1), 92-1-2.
Gerami, M., & Baighlou, S. (2011). Language learning strategies used by successful and unsuccessful Iranian EFL students. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 29, 1567-1576.
Ghavamnia, M., Kassaian, Z., & Dabaghi, A. (2011). The relationship between language learning strategies, language learning beliefs, motivation, and proficiency: A study of EFL learners in Iran. Journal of Language Teaching and Research, 2(5), 1156-1161.
Giang, B., & Tuan, V. (2018). Language learning strategies of Vietnamese EFL freshmen. Arab World English Journal, 9(3), 61-83.
Goh, C., & Foong, K. (1997). Chinese ESL students’ learning strategies: A look at frequency, proficiency, and gender. Hong Kong Journal of Applied Linguistics, 2(1), 39-53.
Grainger, P. (2012). The impact of cultural background on the choice of language learning strategies in the JFL context. System, 40, 483-493.
Green, J., & Oxford, R. (1995). A closer look at learning strategies, L2 proficiency, and gender. TESOL Quarterly, 29(2), 261-297.
Griffiths, C. (2008). Strategies and good language learners. In C. Griffiths (ed.), Lessons from good language learners (pp. 83-98). Cambridge University Press.
Griffiths, C. (2013). The strategy factor in successful language learning. Multilingual Matters.
Griffiths, C., & Cansiz, G. (2015). Language learning strategies: A holistic view. Studies in Second Language Learning and Teaching, 5(3), 473-493.
Griffiths, C., & Parr, J. (2001). Language-learning strategies: Theory and perception. ELT Journal, 55(3), 247-254.
Habok, A., & Magyar, A. (2018). The effect of language learning strategies on proficiency, attitudes and school achievement. Frontiers in Psychology, 8(2358), 1-8.
Hashim, H., Yunus, M., & Hashim, H. (2018). Language learning strategies used by Adult learners of teaching English as a second language (TESL). TESOL International Journal, 13(4), 39-48.
Jie, L., & Xiaoqing, Q. (2006). Language learning styles and learning strategies of tertiary-level English learners in China. RELC Journal, 37(1), 67-90.
Kanchai, T. (2019). Thai EFL university lecturers’ viewpoints towards impacts of the CEFR on their English language curricula and teaching practice. NIDA Journal of Language and Communication, 24(35), 23-47.
Khamkhien, A. (2011). Language learning strategies used by Thai and Vietnamese university students. Manusya: Journal of Humanities, 14(2), 1-23.
Kulsiri, S. (2006). A critical analysis of the 2001 national foreign language standards-based curriculum in the Thai schools system. [Doctoral thesis, University of Canberra].
Kunasaraphan, K. (2015). English learning strategy and proficiency level of the first-year students. Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences, 197, 1853-1858.
Liyanage, I., & Bartlett, B. (2012). Gender and language learning strategies: Looking beyond the categories. The Language Learning Journal, 40(2), 237-253.
Macaro, E. (2006). Strategies for language learning and for language use: Revising the theoretical framework. The Modern Language Journal, 90(3), 320-337.
Magogwe, J.M., & Oliver, R. (2007). The relationship between language learning strategies, proficiency, age and self-efficacy beliefs: A study of language learners in Botswana. System, 35(3), 338-352.
Nguyen, H., & Terry, D. (2017). English learning strategies among EFL learners: A narrative approach. Journal of Language Learning, 3(1), 4-19.
Nisbet, D., Tindall, E., & Arroya, A. (2005). Language learning strategies and English proficiency of Chinese university students. Foreign Language Annals, 38(1), 100-107.
O' Malley, J., & Chamot, A. (1990). Learning strategies in second language acquisition. Cambridge University Press.
Ortega, L. (2009). Sequences and processes in language learning. Handbook of language teaching, 81-105.
Oxford, R. (1989). Use of language learning strategies: A synthesis of studies with implications for strategy training. System, 17(2), 235-247.
Oxford, R. (1990). Language learning strategies. What every teacher should know. Newbury House.
Oxford, R. (2003). Language learning styles and strategies: Concepts and relationships. IRAL, 41(1), 271-278.
Oxford, R. (2011). Teaching and researching language learning strategies. Routledge.
Oxford, R. (2017). Teaching and Researching Language Learning Strategies: Self-Regulation in Context (2nd edition). Routledge.
Oxford, R., & Nyikos, M. (1989). Variables affecting choices of language learning strategies. The Modern Language Journal, 73(3), 291-300.
Phonhan, P. (2016). Language learning strategies of EFL education students: A case study of Thai undergraduate students. Silpakorn University Journal of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts, 16(2), 115-135.
Pornpibul, N. (2005). Quantitative and qualitative views of EFL learners’ strategies: A focus on communication strategies. Journal of Studies in the English Language, 2.
Prakongchati, N. (2012). The use of language learning strategies in English learning contexts. Humanities and Social Sciences, 29(1), 65-87.
Prakongchati, N., & Intaraprasert, C. (2007). English language learning strategies and public university freshmen in Thailand: A qualitative perspective. 2007 Southern Thailand English Teaching/Cultural Change Conference: Prince of Songkhla University (pp. 1-22), Songkhla: Thailand.
Rao, Z. (2016). Language learning strategies and English proficiency: Interpretations from information-processing theory. The Language Learning Journal, 44(1), 90-106.
Rardprakhon, J. (2016). Language learning strategies used by Thai engineering freshmen with different English academic achievement levels. [Master’s thesis, Burapha University, Chonburi].
Riazi, A., & Rahimi, M. (2005). Iranian EFL learners’ pattern of language learning strategy use. Journal of Asia TEFL, 2(1), 103-129.
Selinker, L. (1972). Interlanguage. International Review of Applied Linguistics, 10(2), 209-231.
Song, X. (2005). Language learning strategy use and English proficiency on the Michigan English Language Assessment Battery. Spaan Fellow Working Papers in Second or Foreign Language Assessment, 3, 1-26.
Srisupha, R. (2012). Thai students’ language learning strategies. Quarterly Journal of Chinese Studies, 2(2), 53-67.
Su, M. (2005). A study of EFL technological and vocational college students’ language learning strategies and their self-perceived English proficiency. Electronic Journal of Foreign Language Teaching, 2(1), 44-56.
Suwanarak, K. (2015). Learning English as Thai adult learners: An insight into experience in using learning strategies. English Language Teaching, 8(12), 144-157.
Taguchi, T. (2002). Learner factors affecting the use of learning strategies in cross-cultural contexts. Prospect, 17(2), 18-34.
Thomas, N., & Rose, H. (2019). Do language learning strategies need to be self-directed? Disentangling strategies from self-regulated learning. TESOL Quarterly, 53(1), 248-257.
Tieocharoen, W., & Rimkeeratikul, S. (2019). Learning strategies and teaching methods in Thai and Vietnamese universities. Arab World English Journal, 10(3), 99-112.
Toomnan, P. (2019). Types of study program and language learning strategies of university students: A case in the northeast of Thailand. International Journal of Social Sciences, 4(3), 1850-1861.
Wenden, A. (1987). Metacognition: An expanded view on the cognitive abilities of L2 learners. Language Learning, 37(4), 573-597.
Wong, M. (2005). Language learning strategies and language self-efficacy: investigating the relationship in Malaysia. RELC Journal, 36(3), 245-269.
Wongsothorn, A., Hiranburana, K., & Chinnawongs, S. (2002). English language teaching in Thailand today. Asia Pacific Journal of Education, 22(2), 107-116.
Wu, Y. (2008). Language learning strategies used by students at different proficiency levels. Asian EFL Journal, 10(4), 75-95.
Zhang, L., & Xiao, Y. (2014). Language learning strategies, motivation and EFL proficiency: A study of Chinese tertiary-level non-English majors. Asian Englishes, 9(2), 20-47.
Zhong, Q. (2015). Changes in two migrant learners’ beliefs, learning strategy use and language achievements in a New Zealand context. System, 53, 107-118.
Bonyadi, A., Nikou, F., & Shahbaz, S. (2012). The relationship between EFL learners’ self-efficacy beliefs and their language learning strategy use. English Language Teaching, 5(8), 113-121.
Chamot, A. (2004) Issues in language learning strategy research and teaching. Electronic Journal of Foreign Language Teaching, 1(1), 14-26.
Chamot, A. (2005). Language learning strategy instruction: Current issues and research. Annual Review of Applied Linguistics, 25, 112-130.
Charoento, M. (2017). Individual learner differences and language learning strategies. Contemporary Educational Researches Journal, 7(2), 57-72.
Chen, M. (2009). Influence of grade level on perceptual learning style preferences and language learning strategies of Taiwanese English as a foreign language learners. Learning and Individual Differences, 19(2), 304-308.
Cohen, J. (1988). Statistical Power Analysis for the Behavioral Sciences (2nd edition). Erlbaum.
Cohen, A. (1998). Strategies in learning and using a second language. Longman.
Fitzpatrick, D. (2011). Making sense of the English language proficiency in Thailand: An exploration of teachers’ practices and dispositions. [Doctoral thesis, University of Exeter].
Foster, S., Sriphrom, C., & Nampanya, R. (2017). An investigation of language learning strategies used, gender and language proficiency among first-year students at Rajamangala University of Technology Isan. RMUTI Journal Humanities and Social Sciences, 4(1), 92-1-2.
Gerami, M., & Baighlou, S. (2011). Language learning strategies used by successful and unsuccessful Iranian EFL students. Procedia – Social and Behavioral Sciences, 29, 1567-1576.
Ghavamnia, M., Kassaian, Z., & Dabaghi, A. (2011). The relationship between language learning strategies, language learning beliefs, motivation, and proficiency: A study of EFL learners in Iran. Journal of Language Teaching and Research, 2(5), 1156-1161.
Giang, B., & Tuan, V. (2018). Language learning strategies of Vietnamese EFL freshmen. Arab World English Journal, 9(3), 61-83.
Goh, C., & Foong, K. (1997). Chinese ESL students’ learning strategies: A look at frequency, proficiency, and gender. Hong Kong Journal of Applied Linguistics, 2(1), 39-53.
Grainger, P. (2012). The impact of cultural background on the choice of language learning strategies in the JFL context. System, 40, 483-493.
Green, J., & Oxford, R. (1995). A closer look at learning strategies, L2 proficiency, and gender. TESOL Quarterly, 29(2), 261-297.
Griffiths, C. (2008). Strategies and good language learners. In C. Griffiths (ed.), Lessons from good language learners (pp. 83-98). Cambridge University Press.
Griffiths, C. (2013). The strategy factor in successful language learning. Multilingual Matters.
Griffiths, C., & Cansiz, G. (2015). Language learning strategies: A holistic view. Studies in Second Language Learning and Teaching, 5(3), 473-493.
Griffiths, C., & Parr, J. (2001). Language-learning strategies: Theory and perception. ELT Journal, 55(3), 247-254.
Habok, A., & Magyar, A. (2018). The effect of language learning strategies on proficiency, attitudes and school achievement. Frontiers in Psychology, 8(2358), 1-8.
Hashim, H., Yunus, M., & Hashim, H. (2018). Language learning strategies used by Adult learners of teaching English as a second language (TESL). TESOL International Journal, 13(4), 39-48.
Jie, L., & Xiaoqing, Q. (2006). Language learning styles and learning strategies of tertiary-level English learners in China. RELC Journal, 37(1), 67-90.
Kanchai, T. (2019). Thai EFL university lecturers’ viewpoints towards impacts of the CEFR on their English language curricula and teaching practice. NIDA Journal of Language and Communication, 24(35), 23-47.
Khamkhien, A. (2011). Language learning strategies used by Thai and Vietnamese university students. Manusya: Journal of Humanities, 14(2), 1-23.
Kulsiri, S. (2006). A critical analysis of the 2001 national foreign language standards-based curriculum in the Thai schools system. [Doctoral thesis, University of Canberra].
Kunasaraphan, K. (2015). English learning strategy and proficiency level of the first-year students. Procedia-Social and Behavioral Sciences, 197, 1853-1858.
Liyanage, I., & Bartlett, B. (2012). Gender and language learning strategies: Looking beyond the categories. The Language Learning Journal, 40(2), 237-253.
Macaro, E. (2006). Strategies for language learning and for language use: Revising the theoretical framework. The Modern Language Journal, 90(3), 320-337.
Magogwe, J.M., & Oliver, R. (2007). The relationship between language learning strategies, proficiency, age and self-efficacy beliefs: A study of language learners in Botswana. System, 35(3), 338-352.
Nguyen, H., & Terry, D. (2017). English learning strategies among EFL learners: A narrative approach. Journal of Language Learning, 3(1), 4-19.
Nisbet, D., Tindall, E., & Arroya, A. (2005). Language learning strategies and English proficiency of Chinese university students. Foreign Language Annals, 38(1), 100-107.
O' Malley, J., & Chamot, A. (1990). Learning strategies in second language acquisition. Cambridge University Press.
Ortega, L. (2009). Sequences and processes in language learning. Handbook of language teaching, 81-105.
Oxford, R. (1989). Use of language learning strategies: A synthesis of studies with implications for strategy training. System, 17(2), 235-247.
Oxford, R. (1990). Language learning strategies. What every teacher should know. Newbury House.
Oxford, R. (2003). Language learning styles and strategies: Concepts and relationships. IRAL, 41(1), 271-278.
Oxford, R. (2011). Teaching and researching language learning strategies. Routledge.
Oxford, R. (2017). Teaching and Researching Language Learning Strategies: Self-Regulation in Context (2nd edition). Routledge.
Oxford, R., & Nyikos, M. (1989). Variables affecting choices of language learning strategies. The Modern Language Journal, 73(3), 291-300.
Phonhan, P. (2016). Language learning strategies of EFL education students: A case study of Thai undergraduate students. Silpakorn University Journal of Social Sciences, Humanities and Arts, 16(2), 115-135.
Pornpibul, N. (2005). Quantitative and qualitative views of EFL learners’ strategies: A focus on communication strategies. Journal of Studies in the English Language, 2.
Prakongchati, N. (2012). The use of language learning strategies in English learning contexts. Humanities and Social Sciences, 29(1), 65-87.
Prakongchati, N., & Intaraprasert, C. (2007). English language learning strategies and public university freshmen in Thailand: A qualitative perspective. 2007 Southern Thailand English Teaching/Cultural Change Conference: Prince of Songkhla University (pp. 1-22), Songkhla: Thailand.
Rao, Z. (2016). Language learning strategies and English proficiency: Interpretations from information-processing theory. The Language Learning Journal, 44(1), 90-106.
Rardprakhon, J. (2016). Language learning strategies used by Thai engineering freshmen with different English academic achievement levels. [Master’s thesis, Burapha University, Chonburi].
Riazi, A., & Rahimi, M. (2005). Iranian EFL learners’ pattern of language learning strategy use. Journal of Asia TEFL, 2(1), 103-129.
Selinker, L. (1972). Interlanguage. International Review of Applied Linguistics, 10(2), 209-231.
Song, X. (2005). Language learning strategy use and English proficiency on the Michigan English Language Assessment Battery. Spaan Fellow Working Papers in Second or Foreign Language Assessment, 3, 1-26.
Srisupha, R. (2012). Thai students’ language learning strategies. Quarterly Journal of Chinese Studies, 2(2), 53-67.
Su, M. (2005). A study of EFL technological and vocational college students’ language learning strategies and their self-perceived English proficiency. Electronic Journal of Foreign Language Teaching, 2(1), 44-56.
Suwanarak, K. (2015). Learning English as Thai adult learners: An insight into experience in using learning strategies. English Language Teaching, 8(12), 144-157.
Taguchi, T. (2002). Learner factors affecting the use of learning strategies in cross-cultural contexts. Prospect, 17(2), 18-34.
Thomas, N., & Rose, H. (2019). Do language learning strategies need to be self-directed? Disentangling strategies from self-regulated learning. TESOL Quarterly, 53(1), 248-257.
Tieocharoen, W., & Rimkeeratikul, S. (2019). Learning strategies and teaching methods in Thai and Vietnamese universities. Arab World English Journal, 10(3), 99-112.
Toomnan, P. (2019). Types of study program and language learning strategies of university students: A case in the northeast of Thailand. International Journal of Social Sciences, 4(3), 1850-1861.
Wenden, A. (1987). Metacognition: An expanded view on the cognitive abilities of L2 learners. Language Learning, 37(4), 573-597.
Wong, M. (2005). Language learning strategies and language self-efficacy: investigating the relationship in Malaysia. RELC Journal, 36(3), 245-269.
Wongsothorn, A., Hiranburana, K., & Chinnawongs, S. (2002). English language teaching in Thailand today. Asia Pacific Journal of Education, 22(2), 107-116.
Wu, Y. (2008). Language learning strategies used by students at different proficiency levels. Asian EFL Journal, 10(4), 75-95.
Zhang, L., & Xiao, Y. (2014). Language learning strategies, motivation and EFL proficiency: A study of Chinese tertiary-level non-English majors. Asian Englishes, 9(2), 20-47.
Zhong, Q. (2015). Changes in two migrant learners’ beliefs, learning strategy use and language achievements in a New Zealand context. System, 53, 107-118.