Evaluating Factors Affecting EFL Learners’ Writing at Undergraduate Level: A Survey

Abstract

Writing is an important language skill that benefits a language learner in many ways, from developing vocabulary knowledge to enhancing overall language competence. Unfortunately, EFL learners encounter many difficulties during writing that prevents them from developing their writing skills and eventually negatively affect their overall language learning process. The goal of the present study was to assess the factors that affect EFL learners’ writing at the undergraduate level. Using a Likert-scale survey sheet, the study surveyed of 255 undergraduate students at Bangladesh Agricultural University and found that many factors are responsible for EFL learners’ poor writing at the undergraduate level. Some factors very intensely affect the learners’ writing while some affect moderately, and some have comparatively less effect. By evaluating the factors that affect the learners’ writing, the study basically attempted to make the learners aware of those factors they face in writing, so that they can overcome them, improve their writing skills, and become proficient writers.