Gashbin Dler
Independent Researcher, Iraq
Abstract
English is a global language widely used for communication across the world, impacting various fields such as technology, science, business, and education. Kurdistan, a region located in the Middle East with its own independent government and educational system, has seen a growing interest in learning English. Kurdish EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners seek to advance in English for various reasons, including self-improvement, hobbies, and career opportunities. This study, conducted through a questionnaire survey with 110 students from different departments at Tishk International University, identifies the major challenges EFL learners face while learning the language. The study concludes that the primary issues include lack of confidence, speaking anxiety, and insufficient learning resources. By investigating these obstacles, the study recommends new strategies to support Kurdish learners in their journey to language proficiency.
Keywords: Kurdish, English as a Foreign Language, lack of confidence, language anxiety