Self-regulation in second language learning: An investigation of the learning task

This study investigates how students of the Japanese language regulate the learning of kanji (Japanese written characters). Skill in reading kanji has an important effect on learners’ progress in interpretive reading. Data collected over one year were drawn from interviews with 12 students. The study highlighted an inability for many students to control emotions, manage commitments and control boredom and procrastination when studying kanji. Moreover, it was found that advanced learners were more prone to a loss of self-regulation due to frustration caused by a lack of progress in learning, or self-criticism over an inability to reach goals. This study raises our understanding of struggles faced by language learners, and offers pedagogical implications for teachers to lessen the burden of kanji learning on students