Abstract
This study aims to introduce the psychological expertise required for advising in language learning (ALL) both in theoretical and practical aspects, focusing on two psychological factors that could frequently cause problems in language learning (i.e., trait anxiety and perfectionism). The first section explains theoretical aspects and, based on its explanations and the results of case studies on Japanese EFL learners, the second section suggests practical skills to deal with the problems caused by those two factors. Although previous language learning studies have focused mainly on state anxiety, the theoretical aspect emphasizes the importance of trait anxiety in ALL, and three kinds of actual skills are suggested: (1) setting a clear framework, (2) applying beneficial aspects of trait anxiety, and (3) viewing trait anxiety objectively. As for perfectionism, the theoretical explanation identifies areas some ALL advisors might easily misunderstand, and two kinds of practical skills are introduced: (1) balancing positive and negative perfectionism and (2) applying the principles of cognitive behavior therapy. Lastly, but most importantly, since advisors are not necessarily trained psychological counselors, they have to be careful about how they use psychological expertise. To avoid erroneous decisions, it is important to maintain client-consultant relationships with veteran ALL advisors or certified psychological counselors.
Highlights
Studies have focused attention on the psychological aspects of language learners (Dörnyei, 2005; Skehan, 1989)
The following frequently seen situations reveal the necessity of the expertise: (1) each language learner has, to a greater or lesser degree, some kind of psychological problem as a person, (2) these problems may sometimes emerge in an advising in language learning (ALL) session as they are often inseparable from language learning, and (3) advisors should occasionally explore such problems through the session
The present study suggests psychological expertise required for ALL advisors both in theoretical and practical aspects, focusing on two important psychological factors, which might cause some problems in language learning
Summary
Studies have focused attention on the psychological aspects of language learners (Dörnyei, 2005; Skehan, 1989). Some ALL sessions run smoothly with the focus on learners’ psychological aspects This means that advisors need to develop some psychological expertise as part of their skills to deal with problems caused by psychological factors. The present study suggests psychological expertise required for ALL advisors both in theoretical and practical aspects, focusing on two important psychological factors (trait anxiety and perfectionism), which might cause some problems in language learning. Because some advisors try to use the learner’s anxiety to benefit the learner (e.g., as motivation for subsequent learning processes), they may want to discuss detailed episodes of anxiety. This dialogue itself might be a traumatic experience to the learner if the advisors do not have the appropriate skills to handle anxiety. The theories will help enhance understanding about the subsequent practical skills section
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