Abstract:

English language skills play an important part in today’s world due to the growing necessity to use a universal communication tool. As a result, learning English has become essential not only in the business world, but also in the military. Since effective learning requires deployment of effective learning strategies, language learning strategies (LLS) have been the subject of research for more than half a century. This paper analyses the use of LLS by the Czech professional soldiers who attend English language courses organised by the Czech Ministry of Defence and sets LLS in the context of self-regulated learning (SRL) to identify problematic areas which should be taken into consideration during language instruction. The research indicates which LLS and to what extent the students use. Moreover, it tries to answer the question whether there is a relation between the students’ SRL level and the number of LLS they use. Four-point Likert-scale self-reported questionnaires were used to collect data from 248 English language courses participants. The data was analysed with the help of Statistica 12 software. The results show that participants’ use of LLS is rather low. They also reveal a positive correlation between the level of SRL and use of LLS. Based on the results, proposals for instructors are made to support students’ SRL.

Keywords:

Language learning strategies, self-regulated learning (SRL), adult learners.