Factors of significant impact on proficiency levels of adult ESL learners within post-secondary education in Puerto Rico

This qualitative case study seeks to identify factors that have a significant impact on the second language proficiency levels of adult English as a Second Language (ESL) learners at a four-year university in Puerto Rico. Current data indicate that a significant percentage of adult ESL learners encounter major difficulties within the process of second language learning. Data also indicate that low levels of second language proficiency seriously hinder the overall academic achievement of ESL learners. Given the accelerated increase of adult ESL learner populations it is imperative to gain a better understanding of the process of second language learning. The identification of factors that influence the development of second language proficiency can have major implications on adult ESL programs in the continental United States, Puerto Rico, and other U.S. territories.