This dissertation is based on the assumption that language learners have access to sources of potential language learning materials, such as books, films, music, the Internet, etc. available in Hungary. One of the aims was to investigate to what extent students make effective use of these materials outside the classroom and what their feelings are on the importance of out-of-class use of the language to language progress. On the other hand, it also aimed to find out whether beliefs about language teaching and learning influence students’ language learning and practice beyond the classroom.