ABSTRACT
This chapter looks at learner characteristics which are largely beyond the teacher’s control, and focuses on three factors that teachers can actively address to increase the effectiveness of instruction: learning styles, learner strategies and motivation. When learning and using an second language, learners may employ a number of strategies which are usually aimed at improving their performance. Studies of good language learners over the years have indicated that it is not merely a high degree of language aptitude and of motivation that causes some learners to excel, but also the students’ own active and creative participation in the learning process through the application of individualized learner strategies. While learning styles seem to be relatively stable, teachers can modify the learning tasks they use in their classes in a way that may bring the best out of particular learners with particular learning style preferences.
