Learners’ Perception of Differences between Language Learning in High School and Private Language Institute

This study aims at examining the differences between learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in high school (formal context) and private language institute (informal context) from learners’ perspective. To this end, language learners who were simultaneously studying in both contexts in Mashhad, Iran were selected and interviewed to elicit accurate and complete responses to the research question. Grounded Theory (GT) approach was used to carry out the study. Accordingly, data collection and analysis continued until theoretical saturation was reached. Data analysis revealed that due to ‘inappropriate placement’, ‘disproportionate number of students’, ‘simple and ordinary teaching method’ and ‘grade oriented environment’, high school learners were less motivated in comparison to private institute learners. The paper provides policymakers with a window into developing the process of language learning in high schools and further research on problems in EFL education system in both public schools and private language institutes.