Learning Strategies in English for Academic Purposes Programs

A Case Study

Abstract

Learning strategies cannot be separated from language learning programs. This study aimed to reveal language learning strategies (LLSs) used by Indonesian students enrolled in an international management and accounting program (ICMAP) class. It is a case study of ICMAP 23 learners and five EAP lecturers with extensive EAP backgrounds. Data were gathered through questionnaires and interviews. The findings showed that the participants had various LLSs, and several strategies varied according to individual learning styles and learning needs. All the ICMAP students in this study, except for student six, had more than one strategy, but every learner in the sample chose strategies that could be different from other students. They tend to use direct and indirect strategies in their learning, with compensation strategies being the most commonly used. In addition, they employed cognitive, metacognitive, social, and memory strategies, respectively. The significance of employing diverse learning strategies was strongly emphasized by lecturers who were interviewed and recommended many strategies to address language learning challenges. The findings inspire researchers in the SLA field, particularly regarding second language learners’ strategies.