A Study on English Language Learning Strategy Use by University Students in Korea

This study examines language learning strategy use among students at a university in Korea using a new questionnaire to fit the EFL setting. A questionnaire was formed and administered to 2560 students concerning strategy use and English language selfevaluation. The data about the students’ proficiency of English were also collected. The relationship between strategy use and proficiency among Korean university students was discussed as well as learners’ self-evaluation of their English ability and strategy use. Exploratory factor analysis was applied to the questionnaire responses. Students’proficiency was measured in three ways: TOEIC scores, PEC (course) grades and selfevaluation rating. Results of the TOEIC score analysis showed the high-level subjects used strategies more than the intermediate ones, who used strategies more than the low band subjects. One exception was the “passive/avoidance” strategies, which the low band subjects used the most. PEC grade analysis showed those with higher grades used more active strategies while those with lower grades used more passive strategies. Selfevaluation analysis concluded that the high band used the first four strategy types more than the intermediate band, which used the strategies more than the low band. Further results and implications are discussed at the conclusion of the paper.