Effects of supporting students with instructions on language learning skills: An action research

This action research study aims to examine how giving students instructions on language learning skills affect their perceptions towards language learning skills and English; and their academic achievements in English lesson. The study was undertaken with 6th grade students (n=14) during the second term of 2022-2023 academic year in a state secondary school in Türkiye. The qualitative and quantitative data were collected through semi-instructed interviews, observations, teacher diary and English exams. The results of the data analysis have shown that although students did not have any pre-knowledge on language learning skills before this AR study, they liked receiving and implementing the instructions on these skills. Similarly, the impact of these instructions changed from one student to another and more competent students in English implemented more instructions compared to their less competent ones. Besides, the findings indicated that giving instructions positively affected students' perceptions on language learning skills and English; and their academic achievements improved better after receiving instructions. This study also revealed that undertaking action research would be beneficial for teachers and students in the teaching and learning processes. In the light of these findings, the recommendations were identified for future studies.