Language Learning Strategies Employed by English Majors at Qatar University: Questions and Queries

Abstract

This study discusses the type and frequency of language learning strategies used by Qatar University English majors. The subjects were 120 Arabs enrolled in the Department of Foreign Languages representing different learning levels (Year 1-4). Oxford (1990a: 293-300) Strategies Inventory of Language Learning (SILL) questionnaire was used. The results showed that the students used learning strategies with high to medium frequency. They preferred to use metacognitive strategies most (75.3%), whereas they showed the least use of affective strategies (58.6%). In general, the results indicate that Level and Proficiency have differences on the use of some strategies. The differences, however, are insignificant. The article concludes by recommending that more training should be given in using all strategies by embedding them into regular classroom activities.