Language learning strategy use by spanish efl students: the effect of proficiency level, gender, and motivation

Authors

  • Jesús J. Risueño Martínez CENTRO UNIVERSITARIO SAFA (adscrito a la Universidad de Jaén)
  • María Luisa Vázquez Pérez CENTRO UNIVERSITARIO SAFA (adscrito a la Universidad de Jaén)
  • José Hidalgo Navarrete CENTRO UNIVERSITARIO SAFA (adscrito a la Universidad de Jaén)
  • Soledad de la Blanca de la Paz CENTRO UNIVERSITARIO SAFA (adscrito a la Universidad de Jaén)
DOI: https://doi.org/10.6018/rie.34.1.232981
Keywords: Learning strategies, proficiency level, gender, motivation

Abstract

This article aims to investigate the use of Language Learning Strategies (LLSs) by Spanish EFL students, as well as the relationship between that use and other learner variables such as the proficiency level, gender, and motivation. Participants were 206 Spanish students of English from different proficiency levels. The instrument used to collect data was a questionnaire.

The results show that the participants use LLSs moderately with a high preference for metacognitive and affective strategies. Proficiency level did not have a significant effect, except in the cognitive category between proficient and basic users groups. In relation to gender, there were not statistically significant differences between male and female students. However, motivation had a paramount effect in the use of LLSs.

 

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Author Biographies

Jesús J. Risueño Martínez, CENTRO UNIVERSITARIO SAFA (adscrito a la Universidad de Jaén)

Catedrático de Escuela Universitaria

Departamento de Didáctica de la Lengua y la Literatura inglesa

Director del Centro de Lenguas Modernas "Jesús Mendoza"

María Luisa Vázquez Pérez, CENTRO UNIVERSITARIO SAFA (adscrito a la Universidad de Jaén)

Profesora Titular

Departamento de Pedagogía y Psicología

José Hidalgo Navarrete, CENTRO UNIVERSITARIO SAFA (adscrito a la Universidad de Jaén)

Catedrático de Escuela Universitaria

Departamento de Didáctica de las Ciencias Experimentales

Soledad de la Blanca de la Paz, CENTRO UNIVERSITARIO SAFA (adscrito a la Universidad de Jaén)

Catedrática de Escuela Universitaria

Departamento de Pedagogía y Psicología

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Published
24-12-2015
How to Cite
Risueño Martínez, J. J., Vázquez Pérez, M. L., Hidalgo Navarrete, J., & de la Blanca de la Paz, S. (2015). Language learning strategy use by spanish efl students: the effect of proficiency level, gender, and motivation. Journal of Educational Research, 34(1), 133–149. https://doi.org/10.6018/rie.34.1.232981
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