TESOL Methodology

Language Learning
Strategies
Presented by Winnie Chen

Abstract
Features
Types
Research
Assessing strategy use
Good language learner
Strategy instruction research
Influences on strategy choice
Practice
Current & future

Features of LLS
Goal-directed
A strategy chain (consisting of subgoals)
Autonomy (Controlling learning process)
Self-efficacy

Types of LLS
Cognitive strategies
Mnemonic strategies
Metacognitive strategies
Compensatory strategies
Affective strategies
Social strategies

Cognitive strategies
Schema
New input
Tapestry approach
Interaction (more capable other)

Higher thinking skills

Learning

Mnemonic strategies
Sth. Known( key words)
New item
An aid for remembering
Comparison with Cognitive strategies:
1.Relating things in a simplistic
manner.
2.Learning vocabs & grammar.

Metacognitive strategies
Self-directed language learning.
Planning
Monitoring
Evaluating
Choosing strategies based on learning
styles.
styles
Encouraging students to be an active
participant.
participant

Compensatory strategies

Making up for missing knowledge.

Controversy:
1. Cohen:
Its for language use!
2. Little & Oxford:
Incidental learning is helpful.

Affective strategies
Identifying learners feelings.
Methods: diary, emotional checklist.
Advantages: reducing anxiety, praising
ones performance.

Social strategies
Facilitating learning with others.
Communicative language learning.
OMalley & Chamot:
Cognitive S & Metacognitive S
downplay the social strategy.

Research
Assessing strategy use
The good language learner
Strategy instruction research
Influences on strategy choice

Assessing strategy use

Observation
Verbal report
Strategy diary
Strategy questionnaires(Oxford:SILL)

Good language learner

Guesser
Strong drive
Opportunities of practice
Willing to make mistakes
Monitoring speech
Patterns & analysis
Meaning-oriented
Good use of strategies

Communicating

Strategy use V.S.

Language proficiency
Greater strategy use = higher proficiency ?
Oxford & Dreyers Predictive studies:
studies
Strategy use cant predict proficiency!

Strategy use instruction (SBI)

Advantages: Greater LLS use, self-efficacy,

anxiety ,motivation , attitude+.

Related to:
Culture,belief,content,presentation.
Fully informed strategy-plus-control
instruction:
Authentic, relevant, affective, integrated into
regular language classroom.
One-time- only workshop
Improvement

Factors affect strategy choice

Motivation
Environment
Learning style & personalities
Gender
Culture & nation
Career orientation
Age
Language task

Practice & Conclusion

Assessing strategy use
Attuning instruction to learners needs
Formats for instruction
Conducting instruction
Evaluation of instruction

Strategy use instruction

Discussion

What language learning strategies you use when

learning English? Please explain.
Did your teacher coach strategy use in learning
English? How?
How do you as a teacher weave strategy instruction
into English lessons?
Whats your opinion about strategy instruction in the
EFL environment in Taiwan? Feasible or not? Why?
What are the differences of teaching strategy bet.
younger and older learners?