Learning Needs of English and French Students from a Modern Languages Program at a Colombian University

Abstract

This research study aims to analyze the learning needs of modern languages students at Universidad del Cauca and their implications on the bachelor’s program. These needs were analyzed by exploring students’ learning strategies and expectations, standards of competences, and other factors that might be affecting the learning of English and French. Data were gathered through questionnaires and a documentary review, framed by a mixed approach. The population was composed of 108 students, enrolled at the time the research started, who volunteered to take part in the study. The results show that students’ needs are mainly related to developing autonomy and a sense of ownership as to learning, identifying, and using learning strategies, being trained in learning strategies use, being exposed to innovative methodologies, and being exposed to more language practice. Consequently, the modern languages program is expected to take important actions to meet students’ needs in which all parties involved are committed. Finally, since needs analysis is meant to be the starting point in all teaching and learning processes, the methodology developed in this research could be useful for further studies on the same topic.