Browsing by Author "Khan, Z.A."

Now showing 1 - 2 of 2
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Extraversion- Introversion Tendencies and their Relationship with ESL Proficiency: A study of Chinese Students in Vellore, India
    (Pertanika, 2017) Zafar, Shahila; Khan, Z.A.; K, Meenakshi
    This study investigates the relationship between the personality traits of extraversion-introversion and English as a Second Language (ESL) proficiency among 145 undergraduate Chinese students at VIT University, Vellore, India. It is one of the few studies in the subject area that is conducted in Asia and focuses on Chinese students studying in India. The data were collected using the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire (EPQ), Student Information Questionnaire (SIQ) and scores from the English Bridge Course (EBC) for Chinese students. After analysing the data using correlation coefficient and ETA values, it was found that extraversion-introversion had a significant relationship with different language learning skills. Students who scored high on extraversion were likely to score better in speaking skills and reading skills, whereas introverts tended to perform better in listening skills. Writing skills did not correlate strongly with either of the personality traits. While the results refute the claim that ESL academic superiority rests solely with extraverts, as proven by the higher listening scores of introverts than their extraverted counterparts, they also refute the conclusions drawn by psychologists and support the applied linguists' argument that extraversion is a positive trait for language learning. The paper concludes by suggesting that ESL instructors modify their teaching strategies, keeping in mind the various strengths of extraverted and introverted learners. ? 2017 Universiti Putra Malaysia Press.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Influence of motivational factors and gender differences on learning english as a second language: A case of engineering students from rural background
    (Indian Society for Education and Environment, 2016) Saranraj, L.; Khan, Z.A.; Zafar, Shahila
    Objectives: This study investigates the role of motivational factors in second language learning and gender differences between integrative and instrumental orientation among engineering students. Methods/Statistical Analysis: An adopted AMTB (Attitude and Motivation Test Battery) was used to collect data from undergraduate engineering students in the study area. The data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Cronbach's Alpha, ANOVA, Pearson Correlation coefficient. Findings: The results revealed strong positive correlation observed between desire to learn English and attitude towards learning English. A moderate correlation was found between attitude towards learning English and motivational intensity. Similarly,strong positive correlation was found between integrative and instrumental orientation among male students when compared to female. Applications/Improvements: The teacher must boost their learners' interest and create awareness about the importance of studying English both for intrinsic and instrumental reasons. Similarly, language instructors could change their teaching method according to the learners' interest.