scholarly journals LD SIG: Positive self-perception of Japanese language learners in groups

2013 ◽  
Vol 37 (5) ◽  
pp. 15
Author(s):  
Caroline Ross
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
Japanese Language ◽  
Self Awareness ◽  
Self Perception ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Japanese Students ◽  
Learning Group ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
Japanese Group

It is common to hear that Japanese students are not successful at learning English, but self-identification as part of a linguistically inept group negatively impacts language learning. The existing strength of the Japanese group can be used to increase self-directed learning, which can help to shift students’ perception to a more positive self-awareness. This paper describes how we can position students in a language-learning group with both individual and social obligations, in order to achieve this goal. 日本人学生は英語学習で良い結果を出せないとよく言われるが、自分が言語習得に不向きな集団に属すると考えることは、言語学習にマイナスの影響を及ぼす。しかし、日本人学生の自己認識を前向きに変えるのに役立つ自己管理学習(self-directed learning)を推進するために、日本人が集団として持つ本来の強みを利用できると考える。本論では、この目的を達成するため、学生に個人的・社会的責任を持たせる言語学習のグループを作る方法を述べる。

scholarly journals Fostering Independent Learning amongst English for Academic Purposes Students through Exploration of Digital Tools

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (6) ◽  
pp. 863
Author(s):  
Marie-Claude Toriida ◽  
Robert Johnson ◽  
Simon Heslup ◽  
Rabeena Adul Latif ◽  
Conchita Fatima Chiuco ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
English Language Learners ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
English Language ◽  
English For Academic Purposes ◽  
Learning Preferences ◽  
Independent Learning ◽  
Digital Tools ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Directed Learning

Interest in using digital tools (DTs) to facilitate self-directed learning has continued to increase alongside the power and complexity of the Web. However, English language instructors cannot always be certain of the appropriateness of particular DTs for their students’ unique linguistic needs, learning preferences, and cultural sensitivities. This study seeks to determine if a pedagogical approach making English language learners (ELLs) at a university in Qatar responsible for finding, trialing, vetting, and perhaps endorsing DTs results in significant changes in opinions and behaviours regarding such self-directed learning resource use. The analysis of the quantitative and qualitative data suggests that students in this context are already using DTs for English language learning, without prior teacher instructions, and are comfortable doing so. However, the findings suggest that students of lower English ability might benefit from more initial instructor guidance in selecting and using new DTs. While participants did not increase their use of DTs as a result of the intervention, they noted having become more efficient in using them. All participants said that the intervention had been beneficial. Many noted they had discovered at least one new tool that they would continue to use.

scholarly journals Teacher and student roles in multimedia language learning

2020 ◽  
Vol 20 ◽  
pp. 67-85
Author(s):  
Thomas W. Ihde
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
Computer Applications ◽  
The Body ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Irish Language ◽  
Use Of Technology ◽  
Language Classes ◽  
Traditional Language ◽  
Directed Learning

This article discusses characteristics associated with access and self-directed learning as demonstrated by learners who make use of technology in the language learning process. Focus was specifically on two groups of learners, those following traditional language classes with access to some computer applications and those using such technology exclusively without the guidance of a teacher. Forty-nine questionnaires completed by Irish language learners provided data which led to the findings reported in this article. Data was collected through correspondence with participants, open-ended responses to questionnaire items, and Likert-scale responses. Individuals subscribing to GAEILGE-B, an asynchronous discussion group on the Internet, participated in the project. In terms of self access and technology, participants did not seem as highly motivated about the existing technological tools as one might expect. Either they lacked the training to access the materials or the body of materials was limited as a result of the language being less commonly used. As regards self direction, the data indicates that the quantity and quality of self direction preferred by the participants varied. It appears that this variation is related to their previous Irish language learning experiences

A Case Study on the Application of Cognitive Strategies to Malay Mandarin Learners

2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (1) ◽  
pp. 1-10
Author(s):  
Lew Ya Ling
Keyword(s):  
Social Media ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
Learning Process ◽  
Cognitive Strategies ◽  
Chinese Characters ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Mandarin Language ◽  
Directed Learning

Through questionnaire survey and interview, this research analyzes the cognitive strategies application of Universiti Teknologi MARA Perlis Malay students during their Mandarin language learning process. This research then further conducts the case studies on the good language learners, to find out the method of cognitive strategies used by the good language learners to enhance Mandarin language using ability. The results have shown that, good language learners prefer to learn Mandarin through Mandarin films and pay more attention to the use of Chinese characters in social media than general learners. On the whole, there are not many applications of cognitive strategies for the Malay students, and their awareness of self-directed learning is still weak. Therefore, this study also explores the methods of teachers to assist students in learning.

The Involvement of Native Speakers in Teaching and Learning Japanese Language at UiTM

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (3) ◽  
pp. 14
Author(s):  
Choong Pow Yean ◽  
Sarinah Bt Sharif ◽  
Normah Bt Ahmad
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
Language Proficiency ◽  
Teaching And Learning ◽  
Native Speakers ◽  
Native Speaker ◽  
Japanese Culture ◽  
Japanese Language ◽  
Foreign Language Learners ◽  
Lexical Density

The Nihongo Partner Program or “Japanese Language Partner” is a program that sends native speakers to support the teaching and learning of Japanese overseas. The program is fully sponsored by The Japan Foundation. The aim of this program is to create an environment that motivates the students to learn Japanese. This study is based on a survey of the Nihongo Partner Program conducted on students and language lecturers at UiTM, Shah Alam. This study aims to investigate if there is a necessity for native speakers to be involved in the teaching and learning of Japanese among foreign language learners. Analysis of the results showed that both students and lecturers are in dire need of the Nihongo Partner Program to navigate the learning of the Japanese language through a variety of language learning activities. The involvement of native speaker increases students’ confidence and motivation to converse in Japanese. The program also provides opportunities for students to increase their Japanese language proficiency and lexical density. In addition, with the opportunity to interact with the native speakers, students and lecturers will have a better understanding of Japanese culture as they are able to observe and ask the native speakers. Involvement of native speakers is essential in teaching and learning of Japanese in UiTM.

Technology and Learner Autonomy: An Argument in Favor of the Nexus of Formal and Informal Language Learning

2019 ◽  
Vol 39 ◽  
pp. 52-58 ◽  
Author(s):  
Chun Lai
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Informal Learning ◽  
Learning Experience ◽  
Learner Autonomy ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Learning Contexts ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
Technology Aids ◽  
Constructed Self ◽  
The Relationship

AbstractThis article discusses some of the current research on technology in relation to learner autonomy, outlining major findings on the relationship between technology and learner autonomy in formal and informal learning contexts. Extant literature has discussed both teacher-initiated technology-enhanced formal learning environments and learner-constructed self-directed learning experience in informal learning contexts. Although valuable in the insights it provides into how technology aids learner autonomy, the two bodies of literature have largely been independent from each other, which may constrain our understanding.

scholarly journals A Study of Language Anxiety among English Language Learners in Saudi Arabia

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Badia Muntazer Hakim
Keyword(s):  
English Language Learners ◽  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
English Language ◽  
Group Discussion ◽  
Structured Interview ◽  
Language Teachers ◽  
Target Language ◽  
Language Anxiety ◽  
Self Awareness

Classroom anxiety is a recurrent phenomenon for language learners. There are various factors that cause language anxiety, the most common of which include learners’ excessive self-consciousness and self-awareness concerning their oral reproduction and performance and their peculiar, and quite often misplaced and mistaken, views and beliefs regarding different approaches. Other potential reasons for this problem could include the fear, and the consequent deterrence occasioned thereof, of encountering difficulties in language learning, specifically learners’ individual problems regarding the culture of the target language and the varying social statuses of speakers. The most important fear is, perhaps, the deterrent fear of causing damage to one’s self-identity. Therefore, while needing to paying special attention to language learners’ anxiety reactions, language teachers have a crucial role in helping their students achieve the expected performance goals in the target language. Another factor that could potentially lead to language anxiety is simply the poor command of the target language. This problem could be attributed to linguistic barriers and obstacles language learners encounter in learning and using the target language. In the current study, using a qualitative, semi-structured interview and the focus-group discussion technique, the researcher aims to investigate the factors that contribute to language anxiety among Arab language learners. It focuses on learners both within the classroom setting and without, i.e. in the social context, and recommends a number of approaches to manage and overcome this problem.

scholarly journals SELF-EVALUATION OF PROSPECTIVE SPECIAL EDUCATORS’ COMPETENCIES FROM THE STANDPOINT OF PERSONALISED LEARNING PARADIGM

2016 ◽  
Vol 1 (34) ◽  
Author(s):  
Stefanija Ališauskienė ◽  
Irena Kafemanienė ◽  
Algirdas Ališauskas
Keyword(s):  
Special Educators ◽  
Self Awareness ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Social Competencies ◽  
Self Evaluation ◽  
Personalised Learning ◽  
Quantitative And Qualitative Research ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
Study Process ◽  
Personal Changes

The article analyses how self-evaluation of prospective special educators’ acquired<br />competencies helps them to identify their needs and study expectations from the<br />standpoint of personalised learning and opens up ways for teachers to start a dialogue with students, better understand learners and, considering their professional interests, improve study quality. The study was aimed to disclose theoretical links between personalised learning and students’ active participation in the study process, to determine how future special educators self-evaluate acquired competencies and disclose their learning interests, interpret self-evaluation results of prospective special educators’ competencies, based on the theoretical methodological model of personalised learning. Seeking the research aim, mixed methodology was employed: quantitative and qualitative research and data processing methods were combined. The study was attended by 78 I-IV year students of the first study cycle of special education. The study demonstrated that personal and social competencies were an integral part of professional competencies; therefore, in students’ opinion, these competencies should be given particularly much attention educating future special educators. Prospective special educators emphasise the influence of studies on changes in and maturity of their values, self-awareness, personal changes. Less expressed characteristics of personalised learning are self-directed learning, implementation of experiential abilities and purposefulness

scholarly journals Self-Directed Learning Readiness (SDLR) among Foundation Students from High and Low Proficiency Levels to Learn English Language

2018 ◽  
Vol 15 (Number 2) ◽  
pp. 55-81
Author(s):  
Abu Bakar Razali ◽  
Lim Ying Xuan ◽  
Arshad Abd. Samad
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Learning Strategies ◽  
English Language ◽  
English Proficiency ◽  
T Test ◽  
Language Learning Strategies ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Proficiency Levels ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
Directed Learning

Purpose – In the field of second language education, self-directed learning is really important as it can empower students to attain optimal success in language learning by engaging students to express their ideas confidently, think reflectively and make use of language learning strategies. The main aim of the present study is to investigate students’ self-directed learning readiness (SDLR) in a foundation program in a public university in Malaysia so as to find out how they perceive this approach can improve their learning of the English language at tertiary level. More specifically, the researchers intend to find answers to these research questions: 1) Are foundation students ready to use self-directed learning strategies in English Language learning? (i.e. awareness, motivation and language learning strategies); 2) Is there a significant difference in the three attributes (i.e., awareness, motivation and language learning strategies) of self-directed learning among foundation students?; and 3) Is there a significant difference between English language proficiency (upper and lower) and the three attributes (i.e., awareness, motivation, language learning strategies) in using self-directed learning strategies? Methodology – A set of survey questionnaires with a 6-point Likert scale were administered to 400 students attending an English proficiency course (i.e., Introduction to Academic English) in the first semester of the Foundation Studies for Agricultural Science program. The data of the questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent samples t-test and paired samples t-test. Findings – Results revealed that the respondents have a rather high degree of readiness to apply self-directed learning strategies in learning English. Motivation has the highest mean scores (M=4.57), followed by language learning strategies (M=4.41) and awareness (M=4.34). Results also showed that there are no difference in terms of SDLR depending on English proficiency levels, namely lower level (MUET Bands 1,2,3) and upper level (MUET Bands 4,5) (p>.05). Significance – The findings are beneficial for students to learn more about their readiness to apply the self-directed learning strategies. In particular, these findings also provide insights for lecturers, program administrators, curriculum developers, and policy makers to plan and implement suitable teaching methods, course outlines, and curricula for the development of the students’ English language abilities.

scholarly journals Teaching Communicatively in a Classroom with Mobile-sourced Materials

2021 ◽  
Vol 12 (5) ◽  
pp. 23
Author(s):  
Rupert Walsh
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
English Language ◽  
Classroom Teaching ◽  
The Novel ◽  
Self Directed Learning ◽  
Shared Experience ◽  
Mobile Assisted Language Learning ◽  
Material Sources ◽  
Directed Learning ◽  
Student Reactions

Mobile Assisted Language Learning (MALL) is now common in extra-curricular language learning, but, more recently, teachers have increasingly sought ways to utilise MALL as a communicative classroom tool. Research into the extent that MALL can transform a whole communicative language course, and learners’ impressions of such courses, is scarce. This study, therefore, sought the opinions of five undergraduate learners on a short communicative English language course based on communicative principles, with materials entirely sourced from learner’s own devices. Learner reflections elicited in interviews suggested that MALL had aided the facilitation of an environment that was interactive, motivating, differentiated, authentic and autonomous, at times potentially more so than on a course using traditional material sources. The novel aspect of allowing freedom in choosing materials caused some complications, though none were considered insurmountable with minor adjustments to the course plan. In summary, student reactions implied that a communicative course could be taught exclusively through mobile-sourced materials, but further research is required to identify exactly how this would best be achieved. Nevertheless, findings here give reasons for practitioners to explore methods of classroom teaching inclusive of MALL that encourage self-directed learning, the creation of a platform for interaction, personalization, differentiation, a shared experience for learners and elements of game-play.

The importance of the self: using online diaries in the EFL classroom

2021 ◽  
Vol 11 (2) ◽  
pp. 395-412
Author(s):  
Micòl Beseghi
Keyword(s):  
Language Learning ◽  
Language Learners ◽  
Expressive Writing ◽  
English Language ◽  
Self Regulation ◽  
Foreign Language Learning ◽  
Learner Autonomy ◽  
Self Awareness ◽  
Final Questionnaire ◽  
Diary Writing

Abstract Learner journals, diaries, and logs have been used in a variety of learning contexts, including foreign language learning. This paper investigates how diary writing can be used in the EFL classroom to encourage students to express their identities through the language they are learning; it is also a way of supporting them in their quest for greater autonomy, with a view to exploring the interconnections between learner autonomy, learner self (L2 self), and learner emotions. More specifically, it will be shown how reflective writing – in the form of online diaries – can offer learners an important tool to explore their thoughts and emotions and reflect on their identity as learners and users of English. Moreover, diaries are a qualitative research tool for teachers and scholars, who can examine metacognitive and affective aspects of language learning. The paper reports a study conducted within a university English Language course, in which the students were encouraged to keep a reflective online diary throughout a semester. The analysis of their personal and expressive writing has shed light on their need to speak as themselves, not just as language learners, and to explore their emotions, both positive and negative. A final questionnaire has revealed that the students were generally positive about the activity, highlighting its usefulness in terms of learner autonomy, self-awareness, and self-regulation.

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