Arab Educational Information Network

This study investigated the effects of training first year, English majors, college of arts and science for boys in Raniah, Taif University, Saudi Arabia in direct language listening strategies on their acquisition and use of these strategies and their language motivation. A training program in direct language listening strategies was used. The present study used a pre- experimental pre- post group design. The research group was exposed to pre and post means of getting data. The research used only one group. This design was chosen to evaluate the impact of the training program on first year, English majors by comparing the performance before and after applying the program. Thirty students were randomly assigned and they were trained in direct listening strategies; cognitive listening strategies, meta-cognitive listening strategies, compensation listening strategies and social- related listening strategies. Tools of the study included a written achievement test in the acquisition and use of direct listening strategies, a motivation scale, a training program in direct listening strategies. The whole study lasted the second term of 2011/2012. Instruction, training and administration of the tools were done by the researcher. Analysis of the data by means of "t" test for both the pre- posttests in acquisition and use of listening strategies indicated significantly better post achievement gains. Also, change in students' motivation was noticed, it was affected by training. Therefore, strategy identification and training should be implemented at all levels of education. Finally, the study carries important implications and suggestions for further research. (Published abstract)