The Learner's Side of Foreign Language Learning: Predicting Language Learning Strategies from Language Learning Styles among Iranian Medical Students

Abstract

The purpose of the study is to examine whether certain language learning styles are predictive of certain language learning strategies among Iranian EFL medical students. Unlike many studies which have investigated isolated dimensions of learning styles, this study applies a broadly focused learning styles indices as predictors of achievement in the use of language learning strategies. The study presents two kinds of data: quantitative and qualitative. In the quantitative study, the participants consist of 265 EFL second-year undergraduates. Two self-reported inventories, the Persian version of Learning Style Questionnaire (E&L LSQ) (Ehrman & Leaver, 2002), and the Persian version of the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL) (Oxford, 1990) were used. Semi-structured interviews have been performed among 34 high and low achievers in the qualitative aspect of the study. The analyses indicate that the synoptic language learning style significantly predicts more language learning strategies than ectenic style, thus turning out to be the more influential language learning style variable affecting learners' language learning strategy choices. Unlike low achievers, high achievers are synoptic driven in style, and capable of exercising more frequent and sophisticated strategies in general and compensation strategies in particular. The pedagogical implications of the study are discussed.