PERCEPTIONS ON LEARNING PORTUGUESE AS A THIRD LANGUAGE

Abstract

This study explores the perceptions of Spanish speakers and their teacher regarding the process of learning Portuguese as a third language (L3). Specifically, the research addresses the following questions: 1) How do Spanish speakers perceive their experience of learning Portuguese as an L3 with respect to vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation? 2) How does the teacher perceive the process of Spanish speakers learning Portuguese as an L3 in relation to vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation? 3) How do the perceptions of the learners and their teacher compare on these aspects? The study adopts a qualitative and interpretive approach, with data gathered through a questionnaire, semi-structured interviews, in-class observations, and a focus group. The findings indicate that most students found vocabulary and grammar to be the easiest aspects of learning Portuguese, while pronunciation was identified as the most challenging. However, discrepancies were observed between the perceptions of the students and those of their teacher. As a case study involving a small group of participants, this research contributes to the field of Portuguese L3 acquisition by offering an emic perspective on the language learning process. The findings may inform pedagogical practices and larger-scale studies in the future.