ESL learners perceptions of the cultural components in their English learning

Abstract

This qualitative study investigated English as a Second Language (ESL) learners' perceptions of the nature and influence of immersion in a predominantly English culture on their English learning. The participants in the study were e i^ t adult ESL learners who were enrolled in Lakehead University programs or courses but were not taking ESL courses. Three themes emerged horn the analysis of the qualitative data: (a) the nature of ESL learners' culture learning experiences; (b) the positive influence of immersion in English-language culture on ESL learning; and (c) ESL learners' perceptions of the influence of culture learning experiences on their English learning. This study showed that the participants learned English culture when they immersed themselves in a predominantly English culture. For the eight participants, learning English culture and having more knowledge about it were necessary components in their ESL learning. The participants' experiences of immersion in a predominantly English culture positively influenced their ESL learning. The participants revealed that they benefited significantly from their experiences of immersion in a predominantly English culture.