Abstract:

Gaining new learning strategies can be indispensable for students in their university studies. The challenge faced by some students such as the case of English language learners in foundation studies programs can include trying to overcome procrastination, lack of knowledge about study skills, and issues with time management and one’s awareness of their learning journey. The purpose of this study is to introduce new learning concepts and strategies from the MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) Learning How To Learn (LHTL) to a group of university students and to measure the impact these strategies have made to their study habits and performance.

Research Questions:
1. Do participants believe LHTL strategies are effective? Which are more/the most effective?
2. Will using LHTL strategies show an improvement in students’ academic performance over reading comprehension and vocabulary test scores?
3. Is there evidence of (and do participants report) any improvement in planning and time management through the use of the daily planner?
4. Has the habit of procrastination been reduced through the Pomodoro technique?
5. Does the recall strategy address illusions of competence and increase awareness of how much participants have learnt and understood?

To answer the research questions, I expect to survey 20-40 female participants, aged between 18-21 placed in an academic English language course for the coming semester. Although data analysis will be in process at the time of the presentation, I plan to report preliminary findings for this study.

To answer the research questions, I will use a mixed-methods design using a survey and conducting focus-group interviews. If the intended strategies are incorporated as planned, I expect the data will show that students will adopt better study habits, be more organized and increase academic performance as a result of the study techniques. Based on the preliminary findings, recommendations will be made about the advantages that these strategies can bring to students.

Keywords:

MOOC, Learning strategies, English language learners, Higher Education.