On the Interplay of Self-Esteem, Proficiency Level, and Language Learning Strategies Among Iranian L2 Learners

Subject Areas :

Mahmood Hashemian ¹

1 - Assistant Prof. of Shahrekord University

Received: 2011-11-24 Accepted : 2012-01-12 Published : 2013-03-01

Keywords: proficiency level, Language learning strategies (LLSs), Self-esteem, Iranian L2 learners,

Abstract :

It is axiomatic that L2 teaching and learning is a process that requires dynamic involvement of L2 learners in the acquisition of knowledge and skills. L2 learners need to be assisted in setting individual learning goals. They should also be given the exposure to and guidance in effective language learning strategies (LLSs) in order to build a high level of confidence in the learning process. The study was an attempt to examine the relationship between LLSs and L2 learners’ self-esteem. To achieve such objectives, a questionnaire was administered to 120 Persian L2 learners. The results revealed that LLSs had a strong correlation with self-esteem. Besides, the same strong, positive correlation was also observed between the participants’ self-esteem and their L2 proficiency level. It was finally underestood that of the L2 independent variables of the study (i.e., self-esteem and L2 proficiency level), it was the L2 participants’ proficiency level that better accounted for their use of LLSs. Conducting studies like the present one may contribute effectively to the better teaching of an L2 to L2 learners.

References:

Allan, P. (2004). Oxford placement test. Oxford University Press.               

Alexander, T. (2001). Defining self-esteem. What is self-esteem and why does it matter? Self-esteem as an aid understanding and recovery. Mental Healthcare, 4(10), 332-335.

Amstrong, M. (1995). A handbook of personnel management practice (5^th ed.). London: Kojan       Page Limited.

Artelt, C. (2003). Learners for life: Student approaches to learning: Results from Pisa 2000.    France: Publications de l’OCDE.

Bremner, S. (1999). Language learning strategies and language proficiency: Investigating the relationship in Hong Kong. Canadian Modern Language Review, 55(4), 490-514.

Brophy, J. (1998). Motivating students to learn. Boston: McGraw-Hill.

Brown, H. D. (2000). Principles of language teaching and learning (3^rd ed.) NY: Addison Wesley Longman, Inc.

Byrnes, J. P. (1996). Cognitive development and learning in instructional contexts. Boston: Allyn and Bacon.

Chastain, K. (1988). Developing second language skills: Theory and practice (3^rd ed.). Englewood Cliffs, NJ: Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.

Chamot, A. (2004). Issues in language learning strategy research and teaching. Electronic Journal of Foreign Language Teaching, 1(1), 14-26.

Chamot, A. (2005). The cognitive academic language learning approach (CALLA): An update. In P. Richard-Amato & M. Snow (Eds.), Academic success for English language learners: Strategies for K-12 mainstream teachers (pp. 87-101). White Plains, NY: Longman.

Cohen, A. D. (2000). Strategies-based instruction for learners of a second language. NASSP Bulletin, 10-18.

Cook, V. (2001). Second language learning and language teaching (3^rd ed.). London: Arnold.

Coppersmith, S. (1967). The antecedent of self-esteem. San Francisco: Freeman.

De Andres, V. (2002). The influence of affective variables on EFL/ESL learning and teaching. The  Journal of the Imagination in Language Learning and Teaching, 8, 1-5.

Ellis, R. (1994). The study of second language acquisition. Oxford University Press.

Elmer, N. (2001). Self-esteem: The costs and causes of low self-worth. Joseph Rowntree Foundation: Prentice Hall.

Gee, R. W. (1999). Encouraging ESL students to read. TESOL Journal, 9, 3-7.

Green, J., & Oxford, R. L. (1995). A closer look at learning strategies, L2 proficiency, and gender. TESOL Quarterly, 29(2), 261-297.

Holec, H. (1981). Autonomy and foreign language learning. Oxford: Pergamon Press.

Holly, W. (1987). Self-esteem: Does it contribute to student’s academic success? Oregon, School of Study Council: University of Oregon, Eugene, OR.

Hyde, A. (1979). The relationship between self-esteem and oral production of a second language. Unpublished doctoral dissertation, University of Michigan, Michigan.

James, K. (2002). Report and literature review into the role of self-esteem as a barrier to learning and as an outcome. Retrieved April 13, 2010, from the World Wide Web: http//www.niace.org.uk/Research/HDE/Documents/self-esteem.pdf                                          

James, W. (1890). The principles of psychology. In C. Murk (1999), Self-esteem research, theory, and practice (pp. 110-135). London: Free Association Books.

Larsen-Freeman, D., & Long, M. (1991). An introduction to second language acquisition research. London: Longman.

Littlejohn, A. (2008). Digging deeper: Learners’ disposition and strategy use. In G. Cane (Ed.), Strategies in language learning and teaching (pp. 85-105). Singapore: RELC.

Markowitz, G. (1978).Caring and sharing in the foreign language class: A sourcebook on humanistic techniques.Rowley, Mass.: Newbury House.

McLaughlin, B. (1985). Second language acquisition in childhood: School-age children. Hillsdale, NJ: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates.

Nunan, D. (1999). Second language teaching & learning. NY: Heinle & Heinle Publishers.

Oxford, R. L. (1990). Language learning strategy: What every teacher should know. NY: Newbury House.

Oxford, R. (1996). Language learning strategies around the World: Cross-cultural perspectives. Hawaii: Second Language Teaching & Curriculum Center.

Paris, S. G., Lipson, M. Y., & Wixson, K. (1983). Becoming a strategic reader. Contemporary Educational Research, 8, 293-316.

Park, G. (1997). Language learning strategies and English proficiency in Korean university students. Foreign Language Annals, 30(2), 211-221.

Rosenberg, M. (1965). Adults as learners. London: Jossey Bass.

Stern, H. (1983). Toward a multidimensional foreign language curriculum. Foreign Languages: Key Links in the Chain of Learning, 2, 120-146.

Stipek, D. (1996). Motivation and instruction. In D. Berliner & R. Calfee (Eds.), Handbook of   educational psychology (pp. 85-113). NY: Macmillan.

Tarone, E. (1980). Communication strategies, foreigner talk, and repair in Interlanguage. Language Learning, 30(2), 417-428.

Stevick, E. W. (1976). Memory, meaning, and method. Rowley, Mass.: Newbury House.

Watkins, D., Biggs, J., & Regmi, M. (1991). Does confidence in the language of instruction influence a student’s approach to learning? Instructional Science, 20, 158-177.

Wharton, G. (2000). Language learning strategy use of bilingual foreign language learners in  Singapore. Language Learning, 50(2), 203-244.

White, M. (2002). Magic circle to enhance children’s self-esteem. Retrieved April 13, 2010, from the World Wide Web: www.globalideasbank.org