THE ROLE OF MEMORY IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING AND ACHIEVEMENT
THE ROLE OF MEMORY IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEARNING AND ACHIEVEMENT

Summary/Abstract: Foreign language learning is a complex process that involves cognitive, physiological, psychological and social mechanisms. It is based on the acquisition and the accumulation of knowledge throughout time. In fact, information processing is related to mental processes including memory whose main task is represented in the act of remembering information which is an essential element in successful foreign language learning. The present article attempts to explain the role of human memory in foreign language learning and achievement. It investigates the learning difficulties associated with memory to propose some strategies that can enhance memory capacity. The study consists of two main parts. The first one is theoretical represented in the description of the history of research within the field of foreign language learning and instruction with special reference to the theories related to memory. It provides an explanation of the memory system, its distinct types and its main models. Then, it tackles its position in foreign language learning within the different learning theories and language teaching methods. The second part is practical; it tries to elicit the relationship between human memory and foreign language learners’ performance through the study of the case of first year EFL university students using a test as a research instrument. Finally, the article ends with a set of suggestions formulated on the basis of the research findings.

• Details
• Contents