Learning english in the foreign language classroom : a strategy-training programme in listening and note-taking an integrated approach

Foreign language learning in academic settings proves, on many occasions, a fruitless experience. The language knowledge and skills students gain in the language classroom become insufficient to deal successfully with languaje requirements inside and outside the learning environment. In order to optimise the learning of English as a foreign language (EFL) at university level, a strategy-training programme (STP) in listening and note-taking was conducted at Facultad de Ingeniería - Universidad Nacional de Misiones, Argentina. Informed decision was made in favour of direct, integrated strategy instruction in the classroom to train students in the use of language learning strategies (LLS). A multi-method approach was used to assess the impact of the STP on the development of the subjects' interlanguage. A one-group pre-test post-test design was implemented and elicitation techniques were supplemented in order to observe the intervention study from more than one standpoint. Findings indicated significant improvements in academic listening and writing skills. In conclusion, the STP proved useful for advancing the subjects' level of proficiency and achievement in the target language. Futhermore, results demonstrated that strategy training could aid less succesful learners in reaching higher levels of achievement, wich would have been rendered impossible otherwise