Are There Changes in English Learning Strategies Used by Chinese Students after They Study in Thailand?

Abstract

The use of English learning strategies is not static, and it can be changed or developed over time. The learning environment is one of the possible factors that can cause such changes; however, little attempt has been paid in researching possible influence of the EFL learning environment on English learning strategies used by foreign learners in EFL countries. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine if there are changes in English learning strategies used by Chinese undergraduate students after they study in Thailand. This study has taken a survey research approach having as the subjects 218 Chinese undergraduate students in four private universities in Bangkok, Thailand. Chinese language questionnaires were used to collect data. Interviews were also conducted to gain insights. The Chi-square test was used to test the hypothesis, while qualitative data were analyzed by thematic content analysis. Reliability was ensured by intra-rater reliability (rxy = 0.970). The findings revealed that the number of Chinese students who reported that their English learning strategies use change was significantly different from those who reported no such changes after they studied in Thailand (p < 0.05). This means that, in general, a larger number of Chinese students have changed their English learning strategies use. English learning strategies of speaking and listening skills were reported as the most frequently influenced.

DOI: 10.5901/jesr.2013.v3n7p292