ESL Students Learning Style Preferences in a Multimedia Language Laboratory

Abstract

Despite these recent studies, the actual actions of NNSs, the choices they make, the perseverance shown in specific activities, and their activity level have rarely beeninvestigated, particularly in language laboralory situations. For example, when given a choice, would a second language learner choose reading over listening, or video over conversation? Further, are their actual choices the same as what they say they would choose? And, are their choices related to the cultural background of the learner? Given that multimedia language laboratories are bocoming more widespread and that it is quite difficult to monitor such activities in the classroom, this study was designed to break new ground in the investigation of NNSs perceptual leaming style preferences as pertaining to laboratory situations. The study of these preferences is essential (a) if we are to continue meeting the needs of our second language students, particularly if they wish to pursue individualized instruction and (b) if we are to understand how learning style is relat€d to the complex process of second language acquisition.