Affective Variables In Language Learning Essay

1018 Words5 Pages

Since the development of communicative approaches toward language learning, a lot of scholars have tried to specify learners’ variables which can hinder language learning process. Affective variables have been the subject of much research in the areas related to learners’ variables and Communicative Language Teaching (CLT). Brown (1973) discusses affective variables in second language acquisition (SLA). He believes that egocentric factors, social factors, cognitive style are among the prominent affective factors influencing second language acquisition. Woodrow (2006) in his project concluded that a skills deficit anxious student would benefit from instruction in language learning strategies and scaffolding of skills whereas a retrieval interference …show more content…

They also found out that language ability confidence, language potential confidence, communication confidence and situational confidence are the components of self-confidence for Korean students of English. Horwitz, Horwitz, & Cope (1986) indicated that adults typically perceive themselves as intelligent, socially-adept individuals who are sensitive to different socio-cultural mores. Such percept ions are rarely challenged when an adult speaker communicates in a native language. However, when learning a foreign language, the situation can be different. Since communication attempts may be evaluated according to uncertain or unknown socio-cultural and linguistic standards, communication entails risk taking and can be problematic.
In another study on English language anxiety, Pappamihiel (2002) addressed the issue of English language anxiety in two settings: mainstream classrooms and English as a Second Language (SLA). It was observed that changes in anxiety levels can stem from many sources. These sources include factors that affect communication apprehension, test anxiety, fears of negative evaluation and identity creation

More about Affective Variables In Language Learning Essay

Open Document