Memorias Congreso - Facultad de Idiomas Ensenada - Universidad ...

Language Learning BeliefsLanguage learners bring different experiences, attitudes, learning strategies, expectations andbeliefs to a language classroom. According to Weinert & Kluwe (1987), beliefs may have a deepinfluence on learning behaviour and outcomes. The authors sustain that beliefs are key aspects inthe learner’s experience, achievements. In L2 acquisition, and even prior to it, students developinsights into beliefs about language learning processes, abilities and learning strategies. The authorsof this article consider that these beliefs are worth to be taken into consideration in the process ofeffective L2 learning and teaching.The first studies to measure beliefs appeared in the 80s when Elaine K. Horwitz(1987,1988,1999) from the university of Austin designed a questionnaire of 34 items known asBALLI (Beliefs about Language Learning Inventory) that explores the beliefs of languagestudents, using a Likert 5 point scale which allows participants to express degrees of appreciation.This survey had as the objective to identify students’ beliefs about language learning in five majorareas: foreign language aptitude, the difficulty of language learning, the nature of languagelearning, learning and communication strategies, and motivation. Horwitz suggested connectionsbetween learners’ metacognitive knowledge or beliefs about language learning and their choice oflanguage learning strategies. In the ensuing paragraphs, more detailed information on students’beliefs about language learning and its relevance with the use of language leaning strategies.On the other hand, Wenden (1986) defines beliefs about language learning as learners’notions, perceived ideas insights, perspectives, philosophies, opinions, and assumptions of thenature of language learning. He describes links between learners’ metacognitive knowledge andbeliefs. He also states that metacognition consists of metacognitive knowledge and regulatory94Memorias en extenso. Congreso Internacional de Idiomas 2012.