Uncovering the key motivational factors behind students’ enrollment in Spanish classes at institutions of higher education

Abstract

ABSTRACT As language departments increasingly face enrollment concerns, empirical research can provide insights regarding students’ reasons to study Spanish. Motivation has a key influence in learners’ success and can be internal (e.g., an intrinsic desire or passion for learning) or external (e.g., imposed by others). This study examined motivational factors (motives) for students (N = 149) enrolled in the first required, last required, and first elective Spanish undergraduate courses. Seven motivational categories were examined: Integrative, Instrumental, Intrinsic, Ideal self, Ought-to self, Wish for language proficiency, and Political context. Results at all levels showed that Wish for language fluency was the principal motivator while factors stemming from external motivations were less important. Students in the elective course displayed more intrinsic motivation and reported enjoying the challenge of learning Spanish. The discussion explores the implementation of carefully designed proficiency assessments, task-based instruction, and service-learning initiatives to stimulate motivation.