Factors impeding the learning of a second language in Spanish school system: Valladolid University Sample

Abstract

The aim of this study is to determine the factors which harden learning English as a foreign language in the classes of the faculty of education in the university of Valladolid, Spain. As it is unquestionable today, English plays a significant role in the field of education as a Lingua Franca. Yet, learners of English experience various kinds of difficulties because of several reasons in the process of learning a foreign language. Hence, a descriptive study was conducted to bring about the problems students face while learning English in the educational system of Spain. 120 (87 females and 33 male) university students (1^st, 2^nd, and 3^rd grade) participated in the study from different departments of Palencia Education Faculty of the university of Valladolid in the academic year 2015-2016. The data were collected through an open-ended questionnaire and semi-structured interviews. The data were analysed and classified thematically. The results revealed that university students experience linguistic, instructional, affective barriers along with the lack of assistance. Considering the findings, some underlying factors and suggestions were provided to be a guideline for teachers and learners to overcome the difficulties in learning and teaching English as a foreign language in Spain.