Importance of Learning Styles: How does Students’ Awareness of Learning Styles affect their Proficiency in Second Language Acquisition (SLA)

Abstract

The concept of "learning styles" has been the topic of discussion in pedagogical areas for many years. Many authors have done many research to find out whether learning styles have an impact to the way students learn languages. It is claimed by many researchers that some instructors may adjust their teaching approach to better match the learning type of a particular student or group of students. On the other hand, others have suggested that a misalignment of learning and teaching styles stimulates and challenges students to grow academically. This study aims to determine whether the awareness of learning styles has an influence on acquiring languages or not. The questionnaires, interviews, in-class and out of class activities were conducted to identify students’ learning styles. The results have shown that after being aware of their own learning styles students can learn English better without obstacles. Moreover, it was concluded that it is wise for teachers’ if they change their way of teaching in accordance with their students’ learning preferences. Further research is needed to identify other factors that could impact students’ learning styles and SLA.