The Importance of Age in Foreign Language Learning

Abstract

Identifying the language learning preferences and needs of adult ESP learners is highly effective in terms of successful language learning and teaching. A research previously undertaken by Abdolmehdi Riazi and Mohammad Javad Riasati (2008), concerning the identification of styles and preferences of language learners has shown that teachers are aware of learner’s learning preferences in some cases, but not in all the cases assessed. This study aims to identify language learning preferences and needs of ESP adult learners. It further investigates whether teachers are aware of the needs and preferences their students have in respect to English language learning. It addresses the need for tailored class management between teachers’ teaching methods and ways the adult learners of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) prefer to learn. This paper contains clear report on identification of needs and preferences of adult ESP learners who learn English in private schools in the Republic of Macedonia. The obtained results of this study stimulate and encourage further research addressing the importance of teacher-student cooperation in regards to syllabus design.

Key words: needs, preferences, adult learners, syllabus