Identity Construction and Second Language Acquisition: A Multiple Case Study of Thai Immigrants in Hong Kong

Author(s):  
Zhe (Victor) Zhang
2020 ◽  
Vol 1 (3) ◽  
pp. 103-132
Author(s):  
Rungamirai Matiure ◽  
Erick Nyoni

This study explored the utility of the learner autonomy concept in the Zimbabwean O Level English as a Second Language (ESL) classroom focusing on three Gweru urban high schools of the Midlands Province. The researchers intended to establish whether learner autonomy was a reality or just a myth in Zimbabwean classrooms. A qualitative multiple case study design was applied focusing on teaching strategies, availability of resources, challenges faced and ways of optimising it. Questionnaires and document analysis were used for data collection. The findings revealed that the concept did not manifest in explicit terms, the learners did not participate in decision making, and the teachers were not adequately prepared to administer autonomous processes with students. For it to be a reality, the Education Ministry is recommended to establish a comprehensive framework of how autonomous learning should be implemented. Teacher training should explicitly focus on how to develop autonomous learners. Teachers ought to be flexible enough to accommodate learners' contributions towards their learning.


2019 ◽  
Vol 7 (8) ◽  
pp. 265-272
Author(s):  
Yunjie Huang ◽  
Yi Zhang

Learners play a vital role in the process of second language acquisition (SLA). Needs analysis can realistically reflect learners’ circumstances when learning the second language. In the presented paper, one EFL learner was selected as a case to do the needs analysis, in which the interview was the main instrument for the analysis. Based on Krashen’s monitor theory, results found that, firstly, the learner’s English needs had not been met. Then, insufficient input as well as complex and an extremely high affective filter were two significant reasons for the failure of needs accomplishment. Additionally, this case study provided the suggestions responding to the specific circumstances of a high affective filter and offered the experience for the further larger-scaled studies of related needs analysis.


Author(s):  
Terri Chen

Every case of second language learning is different, but they are often influenced by systematic factors. What causes a learner to succeed or fail? In this case study, the language learning experiences of a single nonnative English speaker who successfully acquired English sheds light on the interplay between several of these aspects. An interview with a single adult subject reveals that for this particular individual, a high aptitude, as well as identity and personality characteristics that aligned with an openness to experience and learning in general, were more effective than factors of motivation. While identifying how and why a single individual may be successful or unsuccessful might not be generalizable to all learners, it can serve as a tool in helping to understand differences in L2 learning success.  


2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jui-Fang Kuo

<p>This paper explores the features of digital storybooks that can help foster English as an additional language (EAL) children’s motivation in reading English as a second language (L2) or as an additional language. Prior research suggests digital storybooks are conducive to children’s reading motivation in their first language (L1); however, research on the effectiveness of story apps fostering children’s reading motivation in additional languages is relatively scarce. This research adopted a qualitative approach to investigate how storybook applications designed for English as a First Language (L1) and English as an Additional Language (EAL) differ and influence EAL children’s reading motivation in L2, specifically, reading English as an additional language. This study explores the perspectives and voices of EAL children as well as their parents in relation to their experiences and attitudes toward the use of digital storybook apps to foster their L2 reading motivation. </p>


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