The Impact of Extroversion and Introversion on EFL Students’ Second Language Acquisition

Abstract

Internal factors like the personality traits of EFL students are also significant aspects that affect whether the learner’s language acquisition is successful or not. This study aims to discover the differences between language learners’ personality traits and examine the impact of personality traits (Extroversion and Introversion) on EFL students’ Second Language Acquisition. Data regarding the topic in question were collected through questionnaires from 70 first-year English majors and three English teachers at Tra Vinh University, and interviews were conducted to find out the differences between language learners in terms of personality traits. The findings revealed that first-year English majors have two common personality types in the SLA process, and these personalities significantly impact their SLA. Extroverted learners are more likely to acquire second languages well, especially in terms of speaking skills. Whereas it is difficult to know whether introverted learners acquire a second language well or not, most of the time, their learning speed is often slower than extroverted learners. In addition, the teachers from interviews also offered suggestions to support introverted learners in acquiring a second language.