LEARNING STRATEGIES

Learning strategies refer to methods that students use to learn. This ranges from techniques to improve memory to better studying or test-taking strategies. For example, the method of “loci” is a classic memory improvement technique; it involves making associations between facts to be remembered and particular locations. In order to remember something, you simply visualize places and the associated facts. Oxford´s (1990) work on strategies is the most widely known among language eachers in recent years. In her book ,she presents a strategy system which is divided into two major classes: DIRECT STRATEGIES Group I: MEMORY STRATEGIES A. Creating mental linkages: i. Grouping ii. Association/elaborating iii. Placing new words into a context B. Applying images and sounds i. Using imagery ii. Semantic mapping iii. Using keywords iv. Representing sounds in memory C. Reviewing well i. Structured reviewing D. Employing action i. using physical response or sensation ii. using mechanical techniques Group II: COGNITIVE STRATEGIES A. Practicing i. Repeating ii. Formally practicing with sounds and writing systems iii. Recognizing and using formulas and patterns iv. Recombining v. Practicing naturalistically B. Receiving and sending messages i. Getting the idea quickly ii. Using resources for receiving and sending messages C. Analyzing and reasoning i. Reasoning deductively ii. Analyzing expressions iii. Analyzing contrastively (across languages) iv. Translating v. transferring D. Creating structure for input and output i. Taking notes ii. Summarizing iii. Highlighting Group III: COMPENSATION STRATEGIES A. Guessing intelligently i. Using linguistic clues ii. Using other clues B. Overcoming limitations in speaking and writing i. Switching to the mother tongue ii. Getting help iii. Using mime or gesture iv. Avoiding communication partiaññy or totally v. Selecting the topic vi. Adjusting or approximating the message vii. Coining words viii. Using a circumlocution or synonym INDIRECT STRATEGIES Group I. METACOGNITIVE STRATEGIES A. Centring your learning i. Overviewing and linking with already know material ii. Paying attention iii. Delaying speech production to focus on listening B. Arranging and planning your learning i. Finding out about language learning ii. Organizing iii. Setting goals and objectives iv. Identifying the purpose of language task v. Planning for a language task vi. Seeking practice opportunities C. Evaluating your learning i. Self-monitoring ii. Self-evaluating Group II: AFFECTIVE STRATEGIES A. Lowering your anxiety i. Using progressive relaxation, deep breathing or meditation ii. Using music iii. Using laughter B. Encouraging yourself i. Making positive statements ii. Taking risks wisely iii. Rewarding yourself C. Taking your emotional temperature i. Listening to your body ii. Using a checklist iii. Writing a language learning diary iv. Discussing your feelings with someone else Group III. SOCIAL STRATEGIES A. Asking questions i. Asking for clarification ii. Asking for correction B. Cooperating with others i. Cooperating with peers ii. Cooperating with proficiency users of the new language C. Empathizing with others i. Developing cultural understanding ii. Becoming aware of others thoughts and feelings