Iranian Intermediate ESP Students’ language learning beliefs and their language learning strategies

Abstract

The aim of the study is to examine the relationship between ESP students' language learning beliefs and strategy use. 68 Iranian female students studying in midwifery and nursing departments were selected. Study participants received the Quick Oxford placement, and 51 intermediate participants were selected from among them. Language Learning-Related Beliefs Inventory, and Language Learning Strategy-Inventory were used. Chi-square was used to find the relationship. The results showed that Iranian midwifery students are moderate in their beliefs about language learning, they generally use language learning strategies at a moderate level, and their preferences for language learning strategies are compensatory, metacognitive, memory, cognitive, social and affective. The results also showed that there is a positive relationship between ESP students' language learning beliefs and their use of language learning strategies. The findings of this study can also be fruitful for language learners and teachers, curriculum designers and material developers. Keywords: ESP students, language learning beliefs, language learning strategies