KE YANG (NANJING XIAOZHUANG UNIVERSITY)
QINGYAN YOU (Ningbo Yinzhou Cunde School, Ningbo China PR)

AN INVESTIGATION OF THE LANGUAGE LEARNING STRATEGIES OF CHINESE EFL LEARNERS: A CASE STUDY IN A SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL IN A COASTAL CITY IN CHINA : METHODOLOGIES AND TEACHING APPROACHES

While numerous studies have examined language learning strategies (LLS) among English learners in various contexts across the world, the exploration of LLS within Chinese rural senior high school students remains scarce. The current research employs a mixed-method approach to delve into the LLS application among these student participants, aiming to uncover not only the prevalence of LLS usage but also the various elements that shape this utilization in a rural Chinese high school setting. Employing a mixed-method approach, the research surveyed 60 students using the Strategy Inventory for Language Learning (SILL) and conducted semi-structured interviews with six students to explore the prevalence and determinants of LLS usage. Findings indicate an underutilization of memory strategies, despite their importance for language retention and recall. The study highlights the impact of personal factors like second language motivation and proficiency, as well as cultural and educational contexts such as exam-oriented education and teacher influence on LLS application. It suggests integrating memory-aiding techniques in teaching, providing personalized LLS guidance, broadening learning objectives beyond exams, and enhancing teacher training in LLS. These insights offer valuable guidance for improving English education in rural Chinese high schools.

Dr. Ke Yang, Steve obtained an EdD in English Education from Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong; and an M.A in Applied Linguistics at University of Nottingham, UK. His major research interests lie in English-medium instruction, transnational higher education and Halliday's SFL. Dr Yang currently works at the School of Foreign Languages, Nanjing Xiaozhuang University, Nanjing, China PR.

Ms You Qingyan earns an MA in TESOL with distinction from the University of Nottingham Ningbo China. Her research interests lie in SLA for young learners at secondary level. Now she works as an English teacher in a secondary school in Ningbo China.