Validation of a Self-Regulated Foreign Language Learning Strategy Questionnaire through multidimensional modelling

Abstract

The main objective of the present research is to validate a Self-Regulated Foreign Language Learning Strategy Questionnaire based on previous research, conceptualised in a strategy inventory for language learning and self-regulated language learning. A total of 2223 lower secondary school children participated in the study. After the questionnaire development process, children completed the questionnaire online. Confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) were conducted through structural equation modelling (SEM) to assess our hypothesised six-factor structure model. The results of the CFA validated a five-factor correlated model with metacognitive, cognitive, meta-affective, meta-sociocultural-interactive and sociocultural-interactive factors, while the affective factor was not included. Internal and composite reliability confirmed the consistency of our factors, and convergent validity provided evidence for significant relationships between them. Our results draw attention to the complexity of language learning strategy use, which spans cognitive, affective and sociocultural factors as well as their 'meta' approaches. A more concrete distinction demands further investigation and a more accurate design of the questionnaire in the affective field.