Identifying learner strategies for second/foreign language learning and use: The choice of assessment tools

Abstract

The main aim of this article is to explore the question of what assessment methods researchers and teachers can employ in order to identify second/foreign language learners’ strategies for language learning and use, bearing in mind a number of vital technical or methodological considerations voiced by other researchers so far. The information presented in the article may help researchers to plan and effectively conduct language learner strategy research, taking into consideration a number of essential, targeted questions related to research quality, its methodology, as well as tools selection and evaluation criteria. Subsequently, in language education it may constitute the starting point for the process of learner strategy training in the classroom and beyond it. This, in turn, may encourage learners to stretch their individual learning preferences, develop and enrich language learning strategy repertoires, and facilitate future autonomous or self-regulated language learning, and continued lifelong learning.

Keywords

• learning preferences
• second/foreign language learning strategies
• strategy research
• strategy assessment methods
• strategy research tools