A Correlative Research On Extraversion/Introversion And Overt/Covert Behavior In Foreign Language Output

The influence of personality on foreign language learning has been emphasized by researchers gradually in recent years. However, the researches focused on the relationship between extraversion/introversion and foreign language learning are still few. This paper mainly studies the correlation between extraversion/introversion and overt/covert behavior.This study was made through the process of combining research methods in the quantitative and the qualitative aspects beginning with the hypotheses based on the influence of extraversion/introversion personality on foreign language learning. Two hypotheses were put forward: 1. Extraversive learners have advantages in overt behavior (oral English) in foreign language output. 2. Introversive learners have advantages in covert behavior (listening, reading and writing) in foreign language output.In the quantitative research, the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire was adopted to classify the testees' personality types, and then, SPSS 13.0 was used to calculate the correlations of extraversion/introversion and the scores of Comprehensive English, Listening Comprehension, Oral English, Writing in English and Extensive Reading courses, with the correlation between extraversion/introversion and overt/covert behavior deduced at last. In the qualitative research, four testees with typical extraversion or introversion personality were interviewed.According to the research results, teachers are suggested to adopt proper teaching strategy based on different students' personality tendencies to achieve best teaching effect. Meanwhile, learners are suggested to use effective learning methods to develop advantages and make up for the disadvantages.