Study learning strategies employed by EFL learners: A study of how they relate to learner autonomy and language proficiency

Abstract

Abstract: This research focus on learning strategies employed by EFL learners: A study of how they relate to learner autonomy and language proficiency. It aimed to determine what is the relationship between learning strategies and learner autonomy and how both influence language proficiency. This investigation was conducted at a public and private high school in the province of Loja and employed a mixed-method approach, including quantitative and qualitative analyses. The sample of this study comprised fifty second-year senior high school students and two EFL teachers. The instruments used during the data collection stage were a students' questionnaire, a teachers questionnaire, and a semi-structured interview. The findings revealed that learning strategies mainly compensatory and social, influence students' learner autonomy while students are learning a second language because they have full control of their learning and help to increase language proficiency. Moreover, when comparing the results of the students and teachers questionaries, learning strategies, and learner autonomy are closely related and help students to increase their language proficiency.