Cognizance of Language Learning Strategies - The Need of the Hour

Abstract

Over the years it has been found that the competence of the learners in English at undergraduate level especially in professional colleges is found wanting. The course materials offered at various levels (school, college and undergraduate level) though are often well researched, the communicative competence among majority of students is often found wanting. Text books have been revised, teachers have received orientation, and however the challenge still persists. In this context an overt training course in language learning strategies will help to improve the quality of learning that takes place in the classroom. There has been a shift of emphasis in the present curriculum from teaching, with a focus on equipping the learner with essential language skills and giving the leaner the confidence to use the language effectively in real life situations. With this shift, the teacher/ learner roles have also undergone a change. The learner’s role is envisaged as a negotiator of learning experience and of the teacher as a facilitator, manager and a researcher. Learning English as a service language should be the focus of any curriculum and teachers should have more interactive sessions which will enable the learners in language acquisition. The paper discusses how these strategies of learning will help in enhancing the teaching/ process of learning in the classroom.