Background: Despite the many studies that have been conducted on the learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) regarding grammar ability in various contexts, some gaps are still unbridged and need researching. Therefore, this study addresses the research gap in the Saudi context concerning the grammatical competence of Saudi EFL (English as foreign language) learners. Methods: This study described the Saudi EFL learners’ level of awareness in developing grammatical forms. It also assessed Saudi EFL students' level of performance in grammar learning. Finally, it quantitatively explored what, if any, gendered differences exist in the grammar acquisition of Saudi EFL learners. The study employed descriptive and inferential statistics to analyze the data. The study sample comprised 50 Saudi EFL students out of the population of 120 students enrolled in EFL programs at Qassim University, Saudi Arabia with sample size being determined using online sampling calculator Raosoft. Results: The results of the present study show that the Saudi EFL learners manifest a favorable level of awareness in developing grammatical forms while they still not having attained mastery of English grammar. Results also indicate that grammatical competence and level of awareness are more advanced among the Saudi EFL female learners compared to their male counterparts. Conclusions: The outcomes of this research imply that Saudi EFL learners have sufficient performance in grammar learning but need further nurturance. Implications of this study will serve as a basis for English language learning development interventions in the benefit of the students.
It is undoubtedly true that some factors influence students' learning of the English language. This research examines factors that influence Saudi students' learning, studying in second language acquisition (ENG 466) course, at the English and Translation Department, Qasim University This qualitative study included 13 Saudi EFL learners using an open-ended three feedback questions to collect the data that explored linguistics, social, and psychological factors that influence their L2 learning. Using the content analysis procedures, the study found: some students considered they were average- or weak second language (L2) learners, more than half of the students believed that they were proficient L2 learners. Additionally, the results showed that all three (linguistic, social, and psychological) factors were significant in either encouraging or discouraging learners in the progression of their L2, for instance, a teacher may be a source of inspiration for students or a source of discouragement. The response also revealed that having a companion to practise the language who is interested in the subjects you are learning with, is among the key elements that define successful language learners. The research advises EFL teachers to exercise caution and address the various elements that influence their students' acquisition of a second language. The present paper's conclusion included a few comments, instructional implications, and suggestions.
EFL is one of the two most liberally funded academic streams in Saudi Arabia after science and technology. Universities across the country are replete with faculty that boast of enviable national and global exposure. Even so, learner standards, especially in writing skills, are way below those expected which highlights the need for rigorous research into what it is that drives the EFL teachers’ choices in the classrooms. This study carried out a systematic evaluation of teachers’ focus in the writing classes at Qassim University, with four parameters isolated for data collection: (i) writing approaches; (ii) writing performance; (iii) writing strategies, and (iv) writing skills. The study tool is a survey with 46 teachers engaged from undergraduate to research studies at the University. The findings showed that writing approaches were the highest focused variable among the EFL faculty followed by writing performance, writing strategies and lastly, writing skills. The findings showed the tendency of EFL teachers to focus on areas that do not directly help in developing their learners' ability in writing and hence, EFL teachers/ instructors’ need to focus on the practical side of the writing skills and providing adequate exposure to their learners in group, pair and individual tasks to master the writing skills. Finally, assessment needs to focus on measuring the practical side of the learners’ knowledge rather than blindly testing them on their ability to reproduce their learning.
Students at the tertiary level must be placed in an interactive learning setting since traditional lectures are no longer the most effective method of getting students involved in active learning. One of the criteria for passing the course in the department of English and Translation at Qassim University is the performance in the oral presentation simulation. Since this performance of a presentation is not just dependent on the cognitive domain but also the affective dimension, and speaking anxiety can be detrimental to students’ performance affecting their learning motivation in the long run and grades in the short term. This study, therefore, examines the level of anxiety, signs of anxiety and factors that lead to oral anxiety among Saudi EFL students. Fifty students from the department of English and Translation at Qassim University’s second semester comprised the study sample. Direct observation, in-depth interviews, and surveys were used to collect data from the participants. Results show that students experience moderate levels of anxiety related to language (M= 3.51, SD= 0.54).
Objectives: This research aims to examine contemporary trends and methods to improve general education curricula in Saudi Arabia. The study employs a qualitative technique based on recent research, books, journals, and other publications. The findings of this study show that the ministry of education in Saudi Arabia must follow current trends and approaches in improving general education curricula that strive to afford educated individuals with a suitable scientific education that prepares them for life in the twenty-first century, which leads them to the acquisition and mastery of advanced and usable scientific concepts. There is, also, a greater understanding and mastery of advanced scientific concepts, as well as the ability to apply science skills and processes, which led to an improvement in students’ innovative and creative abilities, positive scientific attitudes towards science, and the ability to make sound personal and social decisions. It is possible to develop an educational curriculum in a variety of ways, such as by staying abreast of changes in the work environment which also ensures professional and individual growth. The changes in the economy, the agricultural sector, culture, education, availability of suitable logistics, and a balance between theoretical themes and practical applications are all components of the general education curricula in Saudi Arabia.
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