Presentation for LN209 week 5

1. Language learning strategies
Learner ownership of the learning process

2. The good language learner…
..has a wider repertoire of language learning strategies
which they use more frequently than their peers
…uses monitoring strategies (Vandegrfit,2003)
Use of appropriate language learning strategies often
results in improved proficiency or achievement overall or
in specific skill areas (Oxford et al., 1993; Thompson &
Rubin, 1993).

3. What is a language learning strategy?
“ steps or actions consciously selected by learners
either to improve the learning of a second
language, the use of it, or both” (Cohen, 1998)
“tools for active, self-directed involvement”
(Oxford, 1990)

5. Classifications:
 Metacognitive strategies
 Plan, monitor, evaluate
 Cognitive strategies
 Learn and use new language/skills
 Social/affective strategies
 Regulate emotions, motivation and attitude
 (O’Malley and Chamot, 1990. Based on cognitive theory)

6. More classifications:
 Cognitive—making associations between new and already known information;
 Mnemonic—making associations between new and already known information
through use of formula, phrase, verse or the like;
 Metacognitive—controlling own cognition through the co-ordination of the
planning, organization and evaluation of the learning process;
 Compensatory—using context to make up for missing information in reading and
writing;
 Affective—regulation of emotions, motivation and attitude toward learning;
 Social—the interaction with other learners to improve language learning and
cultural understanding.
 (Oxford, 1990. Taxonomy)

9. Task 1
 Discuss the examples on your handouts:
 Which have you used? Have any of them been included in the teaching you have
experienced? If so, how?
 How would you classify them?
 Choose one or two strategies and discuss how you would include them in your teaching.

10. Does strategy instruction work?
 The problems of definition
 The issue of generalisability
 Need for a research framework
“The acknowledged link between strategic competence in language learning, learner
autonomy and successful outcomes is a powerful argument for bringing together
state-of-the-art research into the theory and practice of language learning strategies
in learning environments that do not rely on the physical presence of the teacher.”
(Hurd & Lewis, 2008, p. xii)

11. Teaching and learning: a paradigm shift
The death of learning styles
Shifting the locus of control
Growth mindset (Dweck, 2006)
Life hacks: the impact of the internet

12. Task 2:
What would you do to progress this area of
language learning?
In groups, discuss the issues, risks and potential
for language learning strategies.