English and Chinese Speaking Strategies of Korean University Students

Abstract

Most language strategy-related research was on one L2; however, little is known about the comparison of learner strategy use for different second languages. This study examined 1) overall patterns of English and Chinese speaking strategies of Korean university students, 2) differences in their strategy use by proficiency, and 3) the relationships among the use of different strategies. The participants included 51 undergraduate students learning both English and Chinese. A self report questionnaire, specifically, Oral Communication Strategy Inventory (OCSI) developed by Nakatani (2006) was administered. The data were analyzed using statistical methods. The findings reveal that the students use message reduction and nonverbal strategies most frequently whereas they use thinking in the target language and accuracy strategies least frequently. Strategies that facilitate oral communication such as fluency, negotiation for meaning, and social affective strategies are used frequently by the group of students who are good at both English and Chinese. Furthermore, the correlational analysis reveals that the more the students attempt to be fluent, the more they try to control their fear of speaking as well as to pay attention to accuracy. This study suggests that it would be beneficial for students to be trained to maximize their strategy use.