Mod 2: ESL Learner > Learning Factors 2

Here are more factors that may affect a learner's performance in the tutoring session.

Most rewarding to me is when my students understand new words and meanings and they are pleased with themselves. I have learned respect for people that are trying to learn a new language, particularly older people.

Sharon, 100 Mile House

Sharon, with Kathavina
and Dieter, 100 Mile House

Culture includes values, beliefs, and social practices. The cultural background of your learner may affect your tutoring sessions. In some cultures it’s considered rude to ask questions, or tell a teacher that you don’t understand, or call teachers by their first name. It may take some encouragement before learners are comfortable expressing their needs and wants.

It’s helpful to do some research into the culture of the learner you are tutoring to gain some understanding of who they are. For an example, watch this video.

Although cultural differences may be frustrating at times, your tolerance and support will help ease the learner’s transition to using a new language. One resource that may aid your research
is the Citizenship and Immigration Cultural Profile Project:
http://www.cp-pc.ca/english/index.html

Too Old to Learn?

The adult learner brings maturity, knowledge, and rich life experience to the tutoring situation. However, a common fear expressed by adult learners is: “I’m too old to learn English.” The notion of being “old” can differ greatly from culture to culture, particularly for women. Current research on learning and the aging brain has shown that as people age they continue to be capable of learning new things, although they may need more time. Learners may need a “pep talk” from their tutor about their continuing ability to learn. This encouragement could include looking at what seniors are up to in their community, and exploring educational opportunities available to them.

Some adult ESL learners may be highly educated in their own language and may even have a strong foundation in English. However, they may still need help with English grammar, pronunciation, or vocabulary. Other learners may have had very little schooling, if any, in their home country, so English may be the first language in which they are learning to read and write.

Individuals who, for various reasons, were forced to leave their home country may have greater stress adjusting to life in Canada. This could impact their self-confidence and motivation to learn English. Others who have had highly successful professional careers may feel inadequate if they have difficulty learning English. These and other experiences will affect the learners’ ability to concentrate their attention on learning English.

Is the learner quiet and shy? Gregarious, talkative and willing to ask questions? Eager to attend social events? Is the learner easy going and flexible, or somewhat rigid and inflexible when confronted with new ideas or possible problems? Personality can influence the learner’s ability to learn English, as well as affect how quickly he or she feels comfortable in a new culture.