The Language Learning Beliefs of Self-identified, Successful Learners of Spanish as a Foreign Language

Murphy, Elizabeth and Rodriguez-Manzanares, Maria A. (2010) The Language Learning Beliefs of Self-identified, Successful Learners of Spanish as a Foreign Language. Canadian and International Education, 39 (2). pp. 75-89. ISSN 1927-694X

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Abstract

This paper reports on a case study designed to gain insight into the language learning beliefs (LLBs) of eight, self-identified, successful learners of Spanish as a foreign language at a Canadian university. Data collection included an online asynchronous discussion and individual online interviews together with online administration of the Beliefs About Language Learning Inventory (BALLI). Cross-case analyses of LLBs revealed that participants associated success with their ability to create bonds with the target culture. They emphasised developing language strategies as they relate to social purposes, placing emphasis on the social and affective component of learning Spanish, and on learning Spanish in out-of-classroom, authentic contexts. Implications include the value of developing learners’ L2 learning social strategies in addition to cognitive ones and the value of promoting opportunities for learners to participate in social events in relation to the target language culture.

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