Gender variation on language learning strategies

Abstract

This current study investigates the gender differences in the use of language learning strategies. This study aimed to discover gender differences in the use of language learning strategies. A total of 80 students from six campuses of Kathmandu valley were taken as sample in the study. Data was collected using a questionnaire adapted and modified from SILL (Oxford 1990). The findings of the study show that female students tend to use overall language learning strategies more often than the males but there is no significant gender difference in the use of language learning strategies as a whole. For categories of language learning strategies, there are significant differences between genders in the use of social strategies with females using them more often. The study consists of four chapters. The first chapter encompasses general background, definition of language learning strategies, its classification and characteristics, the good language learner, factors affecting the use of language learning strategies, learning strategies and language teaching. Furthermore, this chapter consists of review of related literature, objectives of the study, significant of the study and procedures for data analysis. Chapter two deals with methodology. It encompasses sources of data, population of the study, sampling procedure, tools for data collection, process of data collection and limitations of the study. Likewise, the third chapter of the study comprises analysis and interpretation of the data. The data was analyzed and interpreted on the basis of frequency and percentage. The fourth chapter consists of the outcomes of the analysis and interpretation of the data. It encompasses findings and recommendation. The final part presents the references and the appendices which provide the information to support as the evidence.