Investigating Language Learning Strategies in Male and Female ESL Learners of Pakistan

Abstract

Language learning Strategies (LLS) are vital and helpful in the learning of English as a second language (ESL). Though, it actualizes that the unawareness of their LLSs has affected ESL learners in the area of this study in their learning of English language. Thus, this study investigates Language Learning Strategies in Male and Female ESL Learners of undergraduate students of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University, Shaheed Benazir Abad. The subjects were selected by using stratified sampling method. All of the students belong to the English department. The instrument used for this survey was questionnaire. It is a 50-item Likert-type survey with five-scale responses for the six key approach groups. The modified version of SILL questionnaire (Oxford, 1990) was used in this study to evaluate the types of language learning strategies utilized by male and female learners by Pakistani ESL students and their frequency of use. The data was analyzed using MS Excel by graphs. Furthermore, graphs were also carried out to know the essential effect of the strategies on the gender of students. The findings show that male students were frequent users of memory, affective and social strategies to remember English words, improve fluency, and increase confidence. And female students use cognitive, metacognitive and competence strategies to manipulate target language, enhance self-regulation, and strengthen the meaning of words, with all strategies being prevalent among all participants. Lastly, limitations of this research and the suggestions for future research are also presented.