Within the context of globalization and enhanced cultural exchange, the acquisition of foreign languages has become a critical requirement for individuals seeking to optimize their communication and professional skills. This study aimed to explore whether speaking English facilitated French as a foreign language learning or not. Fifty-three French as a foreign language learners participated in this study. They were from various universities. Their English proficiency varied from low to high English proficiency. A survey consisting of twenty-four statements was implemented in order to measure participants attitudes towards the role of English language in learning French. Further interviews were held with random participants to seek further elaborations on their responses. The results of the study revealed that the majority of French as a foreign language learners believe that having at least an intermediate level of English proficiency facilitated their French language learning. The participants mentioned various reasons supporting their belief of having at least an intermediate level of English language proficiency when studying French: shared vocabulary between the two languages, historical origins, grammatical similarities, the vast learning resources available to English speakers learning French, and making use of the learning strategies already used when learning English. The findings of this study will be of use to language teachers and policy makers by increasing their understanding of the factors which facilitate language learning success. Decision makers may also benefit from the results by understanding the needs of French as a foreign language learners and making informed decisions on language education.

Authors:
Afnan Almegren, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, Saudi Arabia

About the Presenter(s)
Dr. Afnan Almegren is currently an Associate Professor of Applied Linguistics at the College of Languages, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, Saudi Arabia.

See this presentation on the full schedule – Monday Schedule

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