The beliefs of UiTM Perlis’ engineering students in learning English as a second language

Abstract

According to Fishbein & Ajzen (1975), beliefs are central construct in every discipline that deals with human behaviours and learning. In classroom context, beliefs and attitudes that students bring with themto the learning situation have been recognized as a significant contributory factor in the learning process and ultimate success (Breen, 2001). Therefore, this study investigates the beliefs of UiTM Perlis’ engineering students in learning English as a second language (ESL). It aims to examine the ESL learners’ beliefs in relation to their gender, level of language achievement in Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and secondary school background. There are 50 civil engineering students involved in this study by answering Beliefs about Language Learning Inventory (BALLI), developed by Horwitz (1987). The findings of this study show these factors affect learners’ beliefs in learning ESL. Such findings are important for educators in choosing the right approach to the right group of learners to make sure that their teaching is effective. It also suggests that educators should help learners with negative beliefs in ESL learning by motivating themfirst beforeteaching themESL.