The out-of-class language learning of Chinese students studying English at tertiary level in New Zealand

Abstract

This thesis documents research at Victoria University of Wellington which investigated and described the out-of-class language learning engaged in by adult Chinese students studying English there. The research utilized a combination of interviews conducted over a twelve-week period with eight subjects, and an end of course survey that drew on the self-report data of 106 subjects. The findings showed that while the learners engaged in a wide variety of learning activities, and used a range of materials, there were notable differences in the extent to which learners acted autonomously in taking advantage of self-access and other out-of-class learning opportunities. The research identifies a range of variables which influence out-of-class language learning, and concludes that the quality and quantity of learning which occurred depended on the choices and decisions the learners made. Based on these findings, the thesis concludes with a series of recommendations which are intended to promote and facilitate out-of-class language learning.