Fl Learning Strategies In Computer-Assisted Language Learning Environment--An Experimental Study

In the realm of applied linguistics, more attention has been paid to learners' language learning strategies (LLS) which have been proved to be significantly influential over learners' language achievements. On the other hand, since the invention of the computer, it dramatically changes the whole way of operation in many fields, including schools. Then Computer-aided Instruction (CAI) appeared. When CAI was applied to language learning, Computer-assisted Language Learning (CALL) emerged, which greatly promoted the efficiency and effects of language teaching and learning.Much research has been carried out on the power, effectiveness (Higgins & Johns, 1984; Ahmad, 1985; Jones and Fortescue, 1987) and design of CALL (He, Cao & Han) during the passed decades. But little attention has been paid to factors concerning learners' choice of LLS under CALL environment. In this thesis, the author intends to find out answers to the following questions: (1) Compared with learners in traditional learning environment, are there any differences in learners' choice of LLS under CALL environment? (2) If there are, what are the differences? (3) What is the pattern of CALL environment influencing learners' choice of LLS?In this experimental study, a non-equivalent pretest-posttest control group design was used with 2 intact classes majoring Mechanical Engineering. One class was assigned the Control Group (n=57) and the other Experimental Group (n=60). At the beginning of this study, these two classes underwent an LLS questionnaire so as to insure that there is no significant difference in the subjects' choice of LLS between these two classes. Then, the author put these two classes into different learning environments: The control group was taught under traditional environment during the intervention period (onesemester) while the experimental group was taught in CALL environment during the same period. After one semester, the same LLS questionnaire was answered by all the subjects in order to collect enough data for further analyses.The questionnaire used in this experimental study was adapted from the Oxford's (1990:293-300) Strategy Inventory for Language Learning. To collect effective data, the author arranged a pre-questionnaire and pre-interview to find out the clarity and effectiveness of his questions. Then a formal questionnaire and interview will be held to collect data from selected subjects learning College English as a foreign language. In order to be efficient, the questionnaire was programmed in ASP and posted online. The students concerned were required to fill out it there. The collected data will be thoroughly analyzed statistically and synthetically with the aid of SPSS in order to find out valuable clues to answer the questions above. Firstly, means and standard deviation of each item in the questionnaire were calculated to find out the specific changes in learners' choice of LLS; secondly, the collected data were put to T-test to disclose the changing pattern of the six categories of LLS according to Oxford's typology under CALL environment; finally, causes were analyzed through theoretical reasoning and interviews.This research is an experimental study of College English learners' learning strategies under CALL environment in Southwest Jiaotong University. Further research with wider sampling or focusing on correlation between learning strategy use and learners' achievements under CALL environment is strongly recommended.