Reviewing Learning Styles and Learning Motivation in Second Language Acquisition

Abstract

Second language learners encounter particular difficulties as a result of the impact of technological advancement and globalization, which has always been a matter of concern with regard to second language acquisition. Due to these challenges, second language learners should raise their own proficiency and adaptability to provide learning guidance for future employment. This paper reviews the findings of learning styles and learning motivation in the field of second language acquisition. Learning styles have different effect on English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners and learning motivation also influence their behaviors from extrinsic to intrinsic goals. Studies suggest that different learning styles perform well in different aspects of language studying. Intrinsic learners perform better than extrinsic learners. Within more learning styles, EFL students act more motivated in language learning and generally perform well in their academic achievement. Drawing from previous studies, the author proposes EFL learners should find their preferred learning styles and try their best to transfer their extrinsic goals to intrinsic goals in foreign language learning.