Attitude of students towards the learning of ESL A Study of Senior High Schools in the Kwabre East Municipality

Abstract

As the urge to communicate grows, so does the significance placed on language, the most basic instrument for communication. Attitude towards learning the English language has raised so many concerns among teachers and other stakeholders in the education setting. This study examined the attitudes of students towards learning of English as a second language in the Kwabre East Municipality. The objectives of the study were to investigate the attitudes of students towards the learning of English language as a second language, to explore the factors that affect students‟ attitude towards learning of English language as a Second language, and to determine how students‟ attitudes affect senior high school students‟ English language proficiency and performance. The study used a mixed methods convergent parallel design. Questionnaire, focus group discussion guide, and semi-structured interview guide was adopted to obtain data from 600 students and 12 English language teachers and analysed descriptively and thematically. Results suggest that most of the students have positive attitudes resulting in high aptitude but mainly have high learning anxiety in learning the English language. The study also revealed that language motivation, both positive and negative attitude of teachers and favourable learning environment of students are important factors that influence the attitudes of the students to learn the English language. It was found that students‟ English language proficiency skills improve their academic performance and communication with foreigners. Based on these, it is recommended that teachers should understand their beliefs and respond to the needs of their students by providing meaningful activities that would make the English language lesson an enjoyable experience.