The Influence of Individual Differences in the Learning Process: The Case of Language Learning Strategies

Abstract

Due to the phenomenon of globalization, an increasing interest in learning languages has recently arisen. As a consequence, many scholars have devoted their efforts to the study of linguistics. One of the most relevant outcomes of this concern about language is the emergence of differential psychology, which is the study of learners’ individual differences and their impact on the language learning process. Nevertheless, although a great number of investigations have been conducted on this field, the findings are still miscellaneous. With the purpose of having a better understanding of this intricate area, a review of the main variables affecting language learning is developed in this study. The focus has been placed on affective and cognitive factors, and special attention has been given to a particular variable. Concretely, language learning strategies are actually the core issue of the present project, which aims to provide knowledge about such a complex aspect. Thus, the main target of this study is to give an overview of the most relevant approaches and hypothesis in relation to the factors previously mentioned. In order to achieve this goal, an analysis of the major taxonomies of language learning strategies has been presented, together with the description of the main factors that affect the use of strategies. Taking into consideration the theory reviewed, a teaching proposal has been designed which includes activities in order to help teachers to implement the use of language learning strategies in the classroom.