How Positive Emotions Affect Foreign Language Learning Enjoyment of University Students in Mainland China

Abstract

Positive emotions are viewed as a way of achieving psychological development, intellectual progress, and better well-being through time, as well as the ultimate goal of wealth and well-being. Previous research on the acquisition of a second language has failed to produce a consistent positive correlation between positive emotions and the second language learning enjoyment and studentsacademic performance in their foreign language classroom. However, the experience of many language educators suggests that the positive emotions required for foreign language learning are essential in improving one's language learning experience. This correlational study intends to investigate the association between students studying second or foreign languages at mainland Chinese universities and their positive psychological feelings (hope and happiness). 83 Junior students majoring in Business English were invited to the study, and the data were collected through the Wenjuanxing application. Based on the results of the questionnaires, we found that positive emotions have a positive impact on students' learning enjoyment. This implies that positive psychological factors may be positively associated with students' performance and learning experiences. We expect to integrate relevant elements of positive psychology into the design of instruction to provide a more engaging and inspiring learning environment for students.