المستخلص: |
Self-efficacy refers to an individual's belief in their ability to accomplish a task or achieve a goal. Self-directed learning involves taking control of one's own learning, while critical thinking involves analyzing information, evaluating arguments, and making reasoned judgments. This study aimed to determine whether self-directed learning, self-efficacy, and critical thinking play a significant role in helping advanced EFL learners achieve second language proficiency. The present study used an Ex post Facto Design. The study included 100 EFL learners, both male and female, aged 18-30. To collect data, the study used the Self-Directed Learning Readiness Scale, Critical Thinking and General Self-Efficacy Scale, and a Socio-Demographic Information Form. The participants also took a comprehensive language proficiency test, the paper-based TOEFL, which is a standard copy released by ERTS in 2002. The correlation coefficient between the learners’ performances on the questionnaires was calculated and reported. The findings revealed that there was a significant relationship between self-directed learning and self-efficacy belief, as well as between critical thinking and self-efficacy belief of Iraqi EFL learners. Additionally, there was a significant relationship between critical thinking and self-directed learning of Iraqi advanced EFL learners. These findings suggest that second language teachers should make learners more aware of their learning styles. Learners must pay attention to the features of the input they are exposed to and notice the gap between the target-like forms in it and their current state of linguistic knowledge.
|