Identifying Language Learning Strategies Used by ESL Learners in A Rural Primary School

Abstract

Language Learning Strategies (LLSs) are crucial and helpful in the learning of English as a second language (ESL). However, it appeared that the unawareness of their LLSs has affected ESL learners in the area of this study in their learning of English language. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify the LLSs used among ESL learners in a rural primary school. Data were collected using a survey research design through questionnaire. A set of questionnaire comprises four parts were given to a group of 30 Year 6 pupils in a rural area primary school in Borneo, Malaysia. Data collected showed that majority of or almost all respondents used the listening strategies listed in the questionnaire. Meanwhile, only limited speaking strategies being used by respondents in this study. This is because there was a big number of respondents who felt that speaking strategies are not significant to them due to limited usage of English language. These findings illuminated that majority of the respondents did not use some speaking strategies listed in the questionnaire when learning the English language. For translation strategies, data collected showed that the respondents used the translation strategies listed in the questionnaire when learning the English language. The findings of this study benefit the language teachers in primary schools in a way that these findings appear to be a good reference for them to be aware of their teaching approaches and to ensure their approaches suit learners' LLSs. Overall, the findings of this study showed that listening and translation strategy supported learners more in their language learning.

Language Learning Strategies Used by Art School ESL Learners

“…Griffiths has defined LLSs as activities chosen by the learner consciously to regulate their language learning. Bayuong, Hashim and Yunos (2019) stated that LLSs may also be regarded as mental activities taken by the learners to understand the process of acquiring another language. This is related to the difference between language learning strategies and language use strategies.…”

“…LLSs have proved their significant impact in helping learners to improve in learning a new language in the past studies. For example, Bayuong, Hashim and Yunos (2019) stated that the correct approaches and strategies will support learners in the process of language learning. Research after research can prove its significant impact in directing learners from unsuccessful learners to the successful learner.…”

“…Above all, motivation seems to be the most significant factor in the use of LLSs (Rahimi, Riazi, & Saif, 2008) as cited by Bayuong, Hashim and Yunos (2019). Motivation will drive learners' actions and behavior.…”

“…Since LLSs are proven to be effective among second language learners, more future researches should take place. Bayuong, Hashim and Yunos (2019) suggested research that covers all four language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) together with grammar and vocabulary should be conducted to get sufficient data.…”

Listening and Speaking Strategies: Investigating the Preference of ESL Learners in a Malaysian Private School

“…They are used to memorise information, combine it, or utilise it while speaking or writing. Nevertheless, according to Bayuong, Hashim, and Yunus (2019), LLSs may also be viewed as mental tasks undertaken by learners to comprehend the process of learning another language. The concepts and behaviours that learners utilise to learn a new language are referred to as language learning strategies (Chamot, 2004).…”