Investigating University Students’ Beliefs about Language Learning

Abstract

The aim of the study is to investigate beliefs students usually held about language learning, based on the Beliefs About Language Learning Inventory (BALLI) questionnaire (Horwitz, 1988). For this purpose, 423 University learners of English in Iran were selected. Running descriptive statistics and the scree plot test, five factors were extracted: Formal Learning and Motivation for English Learning, Learner’s Confidence in Learning English, Strategy and Attitude in Learning English, Aptitude and Strategy in Learning English, and the Importance of English and Formal Learning. The findings of the current study suggest that teachers should be aware of learners’ beliefs of language learning as well as their own in order to assist less successful language learners to become successful.