I Want but I Can’t: The Dilemma of EFL Learners in Practising English in the Saudi Context

Abstract

The current literature suggests that learners in foreign English language learning contexts may suffer from the lack of opportunities to practise English. Language practice is regarded as fundamental for mastery of English. This study aimed to investigate Saudi EFL learners’ English language use outside the domain of the classroom. A mixed-method approach was adopted for data collection by employing an online survey with an open-ended section and conducting semi-structured interviews. The study participants were male and female students undertaking BA English programs at Saudi universities across the main five regions in the country. The study adopted a convenience sampling technique, and a total of 627 students responded to the survey (M = 291; F = 336), and eight students were interviewed (M = 5; F = 3). The data collection process went through two phases to obtain deeper insights into the investigated phenomenon: first, administering the online survey and conducting the analysis to extract the main themes of inquiry; and second, using these themes as a guide for conducting the interviews. The study’s main findings include learners finding themselves in a dilemma where they desire more practice of English outside the domain of the classroom and, at the same time, lack proper opportunities for practice. Implications of the study are also discussed.