Learning English in Higher Education: Students’ Preferences, Experiences, and Challenges learning-english-in-higher-education-students-preferences-experiences-and-challenges Volume 7, Issue 1 ARTICLES 2026 7
The English language serves as lingua franca worldwide, and in most
educational systems it is taught as a separate subject. This study examines
students’ experiences and challenges in learning English at the
tertiary level, with a particular focus on English Language and Literature
programs, where students are expected to acquire advanced knowledge
to become specialized and competent in the English language. However,
many students continue to face difficulties in developing English
language skills, which may affect their academic performance and
overall learning outcomes. To collect comprehensive data on students’
learning experiences, a quantitative questionnaire, which also included
several open-ended questions, was used. This study explores specific
factors such as students’ preferences, experiences, and challenges,
highlighting how these factors influence learning outcomes and how
they can be effectively addressed by English language teachers. This
study aims to enrich knowledge that leads to improved teaching and
learning practices, with the aim of increasing students’ engagement,
motivation and overall success in acquiring English language skills in
higher education institutions.

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Xudoyberdiyeva, G. S. (2024). The role of learning styles in teaching and learning English as a foreign language (EFL). Tanqidiy Nazar, Tahliliy Tafakkur va Innovatsion G‘oyalar, 1(1), 171–173.
https://phoenixpublication.net/index.php/TANQ/article/view/1403

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