Student Perceptions of Their Learning Experience in Streamed and Mixed-Ability Classes

Abstract

Many foreign and second language programs place students in streamed classes according to their level of proficiency in the target language in order to allow teachers to better tailor lessons to the ability level of their students. On the other hand, it is argued that in mixed-ability classes, both higher- and lower-proficiency learners can benefit from peer tutoring and that lower-proficiency learners feel less stigmatized. While numerous studies have examined the effects of streaming in other contexts, few studies have been conducted to date within the context of L2 learning. Following a review of the relevant literature, this paper reports the results of a survey exploring the perceptions of first-year university students regarding their learning experiences in streamed and mixed-ability EFL classes. After considering a number of topical issues connected to student effect, the study concludes that there are advantages to streaming for both lower and higher proficiency students.