A final survey of English language learners enrolled in college ESL coursework provided some interesting insight as to not only their barriers, but their recommendations to their college or program.
Students were asked to identify various factors preventing them from successfully learning a language. Here are the most influential reasons they reported:
-
32% found it difficult to find opportunities to use the language outside of class
-
28% viewed not having time to study due to work
-
24% perceived cultural differences in the way languages are taught in the U.S. versus in the home country
Other contributing factors included:
-
16% felt that scheduling of language classes is a factor
-
12% did not have the resources to learn a language adequately
-
12% wanted to finish their degree as fast as possible
-
8% did not work much with other students during class
Students were then asked to propose ideas to their college or program that would help them to better learn the target language:
-
74% suggested more opportunities to speak with native speakers
-
70% suggested to watch more videos in the target language
-
56% suggested to read more books in the target language
-
41% suggested to practice more real-world situations in class
Other suggestions included:
-
37% suggested more opportunities to use the target language outside of class
-
33% suggested teachers assess their abilities, not just conceptual knowledge
-
30% suggested to hire qualified and experienced teachers
-
26% suggested the grading system be changed from points/percentages to simply telling students the areas on which they need to improve
-
26% suggested the college provide more access to computers and internet
-
22% suggested more opportunities to meet with the instructor
-
22% suggested visiting the computer lab once per week
-
22% suggested retaking assessments should one be failed
-
22% suggested classes should meet every day of the week
*View PDF summary of survey results here.
