Factors that influence the English teaching-learning process: A systematic review

Abstract

English is a basic skill that any professional must have. When learning a second language, various elements that have an impact on the teaching-learning process should be considered. The lack of knowledge of the factors that influence learning the English language contributes to the educational gap that students have and does not allow the inclusion of innovative teaching strategies. The objective of this qualitative study is to describe the factors that have a significant impact on learning the English language, according to various authors. The different factors that influence meaningful learning of English were categorized using a comparative table and the results were classified according to their congruency. The results show that the main factors that influence meaningful learning of the English language are: student agency, which includes the student’s motivation, goals, attitude and interests; the social context, such as environment or class conditions; the updated and innovative curriculum and teaching strategies; the teacher’s preparation and knowledge to demonstrate their agency; the use of ICT; including cultural language issues; the constant relationship with English starting from an early age; the economic context and national policies. By identifying these elements, a clearer vision of how they impact the teaching-learning process is created. The results of this study are an indicator for improving teaching strategies to ones with greater impact and innovation, benefiting students and teachers.