Interplay of Motivating and Demotivating Factors in an Online English Language Learning Classroom in Light of the Self-Determination Theory Continuum

Abstract

The online world has brought us together on one diverse platform, and communicating in a language that is acceptable to all becomes crucial, thus making English language a priority for students and professionals alike. However, the success of online English learning depends on a lot of factors that can motivate or demotivate the students in the learning process. This study aims to identify such factors and develop models to depict how the interactions among them can lead to success or failure of online learning courses. The paper applies method of literature review, focus group discussion, and the technique of interpretive structural modelling (ISM) to analyse the interplay between the factors which have been analysed in light of the self-determination theory continuum. Further, the analysis also supports an understanding of which ones are the primary drivers of student success, thus providing insights on ways to maximize those that motivate student learning and minimize those that demotivate.