English Language Learning Experience Among Iban Secondary ESL learners in A Rural Area

Abstract

English language learning has become a rising topic in the Malaysian Education system as it is unable to develop fluent users among Malaysians. This leads to a question on what are the reasons behind the retardation of Ministry of Education Malaysia regarding the learning of English as a Second Language (ESL) in the country. Hence, this study was carried out to explore English language learning experienced by Iban secondary ESL learners in Saratok, Sarawak, as the ethnic is one of the majority population in Malaysia. This is a case study, and the data were gained through semi-structured interview sessions. A set of interview questions comprise of 2 sections were distributed. English language learning and the process involved while acquiring and learning the language at school were explored among three Iban secondary ESL learners. the finidgins revealed that the Iban learners had a positive attitude towards English language learning by applying various strategies while learning the language in supportive and convenience classroom’s environment. The findings of this study benefit the language teachers as their source of reference in planning their lesson by selecting appropriate approaches and strategies that cater to learners’ needs and preferences to facilitate their learning of English language.