Second language learning strategies and factors affecting their use: a qualitative study of the experiences of missionaries in Nepal

In the past 20 years identifying the effective second language learning strategies of language learners is a topic that has received considerable attention in the field of second language acquisition. More recently, research has focused on the factors that affect strategy use. Attention has been focused in these areas largely because effective strategy use and the factors affecting strategy use are said to contribute to the language learner's success in language learning. This thesis investigates the use of second language learning strategies in a naturalistic learning context, that of missionaries in Nepal. It attempts to understand how 'success' or communicative competence is achieved for these missionaries of the United Mission to Nepal (UMN). In order to do this it explores the language learning experiences of both 'successful'and 'less successful' language learners of UMN, particularly concentrating on strategies related to oral communication. More importantly though, it is concerned with examining the influence of various factors on the strategies used by these language learners in the informal learning environment (i.e. 'real-life'situations).