INFLUENCE OF PERSONAL FACTORS IN MANDARIN LANGUAGE LEARNING

Abstract

Language learning is influenced by a variety of internal and external factors, with personal characteristics playing a significant role in determining learning success. This study aims to explore how personal, behavioural, and environmental factors impact language acquisition, specifically in the context of undergraduate learners. A quantitative survey methodology was used, with a 5-point Likert-scale instrument consisting of four sections: demographic profile, cognitive strategies, metacognitive strategies, and resource management. A total of 156 participants from undergraduate programs participated in the study. The findings reveal that cognitive strategies such as rehearsal and organization, metacognitive self-regulation, and resource management are strongly correlated with improved language proficiency. The study highlights the importance of incorporating diverse learning strategies in educational practices and suggests that personalized, strategy-based interventions can significantly enhance language acquisition outcomes. Furthermore, future research could explore the transferability of learning strategies across different languages and academic disciplines.

Keywords: personal factors, cognitive components, metacognitive self-regulation, resource management, learning strategies