Language Learning Motivation Research Articles

Demystifying the Indigenous College Students’ Learning of English as Determined by Their Language Learning Motivation

The study aimed to assess the motivation and proficiency of English language learning among indigenous college students at Kapalong College of Agriculture, Sciences and Technology in the Municipality of Kapalong, Davao del Norte. It employed a mixed-method approach using a convergent parallel design. The quantitative phase involved 202 students selected through complete enumeration, while the qualitative phase included 17 participants. Standardized questionnaires were used for the quantitative phase, and researcher-made questionnaires were utilized for the qualitative phase. The findings revealed a high level of motivation for language learning and proficiency in English among the respondents. Furthermore, the study found that language learning motivation significantly influences the English proficiency of indigenous college students. The qualitative analysis identified six themes related to the respondents' experiences in learning English, including enhancing communicative competence, various strategies, challenges encountered, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, and barriers to learning English. Additionally, five themes emerged from participants' insights on the impact of English language learning motivation on their English proficiency, including external factors, benefits of motivation, aspirations, obstacles to growth and development, and facilitation of growth and development. Integrating quantitative and qualitative data resulted in a convergence of variables and phenomena describing students' English language learning experiences.

Analyzing the role of Facebook-based e-portfolio on motivation and performance in English as a second language learning

This study investigates the role of Facebook posts as online triggers for English as a Second Language (ESL) learner’ motivation and performance. The study explores the motivational dynamics of how Facebook language influences learning in the community by exploring the interconnectedness of emotional linguistic strategies. A mixed-methods approach was adopted to collect Facebook posts and open coding and thematic coding techniques were employed to analyze the data. The participants were administered pre- and post-tests to collect their performance outcomes for t-tests. The findings reveal that Facebook posts about learning English as a second language (L2) provide primary motivation for learners and promote their performance. These posts are triggers for their L2 understanding and enhance their language learning motivation and performance. Their affirmation and agreement, sharing of personal experiences and testimonials, reflection, seeking advice and guidance work as projectors in the motivational strategies of ESL learners. Furthermore, motivation is facilitated by the use of attractive Facebook posts. Additionally, practical implications highlight the importance of creating supportive and engaging language learning environments. Further research is recommended to explore motivational dynamics in different digital contexts and platforms.

A Review of Literature on the Effect of Motivation on Learners' Impact on L2 Acquisition

The study of motivation has consistently been a focal point and primary focus within the realm of educational psychology research. It stands as the cornerstone of understanding the psychological mechanisms driving students' learning processes. However, the existing motivation theories, while intricate, are often limited in their scope. There is an imperative need for an overarching theory capable of comprehensively explaining the current state of affairs. From the initial conceptualization of motivation to the subsequent formulation of fundamental principles and the evolution of various motivational theories, the depth of research on motivation has continuously expanded. Within this research, it has been observed that both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation exert a profound influence on second language acquisition. Recognizing the pivotal role of motivation in language learning is crucial, as it equips educators, curriculum designers, and policymakers with effective strategies to enhance learners' motivation and optimize their language learning experiences. In this paper, the authors aim to review existing motivation theories with the aspiration of contributing to the future advancement of motivation research.

Intervention for Learner Engagement using Token Economy among National Language Classrooms in Tamil Primary Schools

This research is aimed to know the effect of the application of the token economy method on National Language learning motivation. The experiment was set as the research method. The variables in this study were the token economy method as an independent variable, learning motivation as the dependent variable, and learning achievement as the control variable. The subjects used in this study were Year Three students in four Tamil Primary Schools in the District of Larut Matang Selama, in the state of Perak. Based on the descriptive analysis, it is found that in general, before undergoing modification, the experimental variables had a low motivation in learning the National Language. After undergoing the modification, it was noted that the variables in the Token Economy program have higher learning motivation compared to the same variables before the Token Economy program.

Unpacking Chinese young learners’ L2 learning motivation: Does CLIL make a difference?

AbstractThis study aimed to compare the English language learning motivation of two cohorts of Chinese primary school learners in a Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) and a non‐CLIL instructional setting. A total of 270 learners from third, fourth and fifth grades in the CLIL programme (N = 184) and the non‐CLIL programme (N = 86) participated in this study. Data were collected through a young learners’ L2 motivation questionnaire. Results indicated that CLIL learners overall displayed a significantly higher level of L2 motivation than their non‐CLIL counterparts in the Ideal L2 Self domain and L2 Learning Experience. However, students in the non‐CLIL programme overall rated themselves higher in the Ought‐to L2 Self domain. When comparing L2 motivation levels between CLIL and non‐CLIL sub‐groups in different grades, we found that the non‐CLIL subsamples’ mean motivational scores witnessed a continuous decline with the increase of grade in the scales of Ideal L2 Self, Ought‐to L2 Self and Parental Expectations. Regarding Cultural Interest and L2 Learning Experience, CLIL students in both the fourth‐ and fifth‐grade cohorts exhibited a significantly higher level of motivation than their non‐CLIL peers. This study provides empirical evidence supporting the implementation of CLIL programme as a potential strategy to boost young learners’ motivation towards L2 learning.

Unleashing the Transformative Power: Nusantara Indigenous Folktales Framework Revolutionizing ESL Learning

Folktales are invaluable repositories of cultural heritage, reflecting the identity and values of indigenous communities while transmitting traditional knowledge. Serving as educational tools, they offer engaging resources for learners of all ages, contributing to education, language acquisition, and character development. Recognizing the importance of preserving intangible heritage, the Nusantara Indigenous Folktales Framework (NIFF) emerged from a collaborative effort between language specialists at Universiti Teknologi MARA Kedah in Malaysia and Universitas Merdeka Malang in Indonesia. This framework, employing a unified Edu-Tale approach, unites the Semai tribe from Malaysia and The Tengger tribe from Mount Bromo, Indonesia, aiming to preserve intangible heritage through formal education. To assess the impact of the Nusantara project on ESL learners, a questionnaire was distributed to 47 students actively participating in the initiative. The survey aimed to gather feedback on students' experiences with Nusantara folktales and their perceptions of the impact on overall motivation to learn English. Feedback from ESL learners was overwhelmingly positive, with students expressing enjoyment and acknowledging a significant enhancement of their overall motivation to learn English through engaging with Nusantara folktales. The Edu-Tale approach employed in the NIFF framework proved effective in creating a positive and impactful learning experience. The Nusantara Indigenous Folktales Framework demonstrates its potential as a transformative tool in ESL learning. Beyond its educational benefits, it fosters respect for intangible cultural heritage and raises awareness about the importance of safeguarding such valuable aspects of cultural identity. The positive feedback from students underscores the framework's effectiveness in enhancing motivation and engagement in English language learning.

Effects of self-regulation strategies on EFL learners’ language learning motivation, willingness to communication, self-efficacy, and creativity

This study tried to know how self-regulation strategies (SRS) affected the motivation, self-efficacy, willingness to communicate (WTC), and creativity of Chinese EFL learners as they learned English language. To do this, eighty intermediate EFL students were selected and divided into two groups: experimental and control. Four questionnaires were then used to assess the participants’ motivation for language acquisition, WTC, self-efficacy, and creativity prior to the intervention. Subsequently, SRS was used to treat the experimental group (EG), whereas a traditional instruction was given to the control group (CG) without the use of SRSs. Four questionnaires were given again as post-tests following a 15-session treatment to gauge how the treatment affected the students’ motivation for language acquisition, WTC, self-efficacy, and creativity. Based on the study’s results, the EG considerably outstripped the CG on each of the four post-tests. The findings of this research have some implications for researchers, English teachers, EFL learners, and other stakeholders.

Associations between Autonomy-Supportive Teaching, the Use of Non-Academic ICTs, and Student Motivation in English Language Learning

During puberty, children experience an increased need for autonomy in all areas of their lives, including school. However, teachers use different levels of autonomy-supportive teaching strategies, which might have detrimental effects on students’ perceived competence and—building on self-determination theory—motivation to learn. In this preregistered study, we investigated whether students could buffer the negative impact of little perceived autonomy support in the English-language classroom on their perceived competence and, consequently, two motivational outcomes (grade aspirations, intrinsic motivation) by using non-academic English-language ICTs in their free time. We calculated several (moderated) mediation models with a Bayesian estimator, using data from N = 1288 Austrian secondary school students who answered three online questionnaires between May 2022 and April 2023. The results showed that perceived competence predicts both types of motivation and is influenced by students’ use of non-academic English-language ICTs. However, the effects of autonomy-supportive teaching strategies depend on which variables are included in the models. Our study therefore highlights the importance of examining several aspects of autonomy-supportive teaching and including variables from outside the school to represent the complex environment in which students’ motivation is shaped.

Exploring the Moderating Roles of Emotions, Attitudes, Environment, and Teachers in the Impact of Motivation on Learning Behaviours in Students' English Learning.

For several decades, extensive research has been conducted on motivation in language learning. However, how motivation impacts learning behaviours with the moderation of factors related to emotions, attitude, environment, and teachers has not been reported. This study aims to examine the moderating effects of these four motivational factors to explain the inconsistent effects of motivation on English learning behaviours across studies. Drawing on self-determination theory, the study investigated 182 high school English learners and explored how the four motivational factors moderate the relationship between students' motivation and their English learning behaviours. We first examined how the four motivational factors predicted intrinsic/extrinsic motivation and how intrinsic/extrinsic motivation predicted English learning behaviours. The results reveal that the four motivational factors all positively predicted intrinsic motivation, while language attitude positively predicted extrinsic motivation. Both intrinsic and extrinsic motivations positively predicted English learning behaviours, with intrinsic motivation exerting a stronger influence. Language attitude did not moderate the relationship between motivation and English learning behaviours. However, the other three factors enhanced the positive relationship between motivation and learning behaviours. Notably, at the low level of teacher-related factors, the impact of extrinsic motivation on English learning behaviours was insignificant. Related implications are discussed.

Language learning motivation in multilingual CLIL

Motivation has long been acknowledged as an undeniably important factor in language learning, and recent research indicates that it may play an even more important role in CLIL than non-CLIL settings (Navarro Pablo & García Jiménez, 2018). However, given the lack of research into CLIL in languages other than English, Dalton-Puffer, Nikula and Smit (2010) have called for a comparison across additional languages, so as to determine the strengths and weaknesses of CLIL language-independently. This comparison is particularly necessary with respect to L2 motivation, given that the spread of English as a global language has led to qualitative differences between learning English compared with other languages (Dörnyei & Ushioda, 2013). The current study thus investigates the language learning motivation of students taking both English and French CLIL classes to determine if there are quantitative differences between the participants’ English and French language learning motivation. Results indicate that the participants exhibited a higher level of language learning motivation towards English than French. The findings highlight the need to better prepare CLIL methodologies when languages such as French are taught alongside English.

Ideal L2 Pre-service Teacher Selves: The Case of University Pre-service Teachers in Costa Rica

The ‘L2 Motivational Self System’ (L2MSS) (Dörnyei & Ryan, 2015) sheds light on theoretical tenets for research in language learner motivation. The L2MSS has been adapted into the ‘Possible Language Teacher Self’ (PLTS) (Kubanyiova, 2009) to explore language teacher motivation. Nonetheless, there is scarce research on a self-system for L2 pre-service teachers. Therefore, in this qualitative study, the characteristics of the Ideal L2 Pre-Service Teacher Self were explored to identify a possible motivational self-system. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted and thematic analysis was implemented. Participants (N=2) were pre-service L2 teachers from a university in Costa Rica. Findings revealed that participants mentioned four common traits of an ideal L2 pre-service teacher self: (1) passion, (2) knowledge, (3) adaptability, and (4) language proficiency. Contrary to Kubanyiova’s (2009) PLTS and Dörnyei’s (2009b) and Dörnyei & Ryan’s (2015) L2MSS, both participants share an ‘L2 Pre-service Teacher Self System’ including four elements: (1) Ideal L2 Pre-service Teacher Self, (2) ought-to L2 Pre-service Teacher Self, (3) current L2 Pre-service Teacher Self, and (4) Feared L2 Teacher Self. It is discussed and concluded that a PLTS system might include the elements just mentioned. However, further exploration on an L2 Pre-Service Teacher Self is mandatory to better understand the motivation and self-identity of L2 pre-service teachers.

Thai Undergraduates’ Motivation in Learning Different Foreign Languages: A Dörnyei’s L2MSS Perspective

Dörnyei’s (2005) research radiates positivity, emphasizing the crucial role of motivation in language learning beyond traditional methods. The study investigated 261 undergraduate students in Thailand studying languages other than English (LOTEs), utilizing Dörnyei’s L2 motivational self-system (L2MSS) theory. Employing a mixed-methods research approach, the study explored participants’ motivational profiles through questionnaires and voluntary interviews. The findings reveal high motivation levels among LOTE students, with ideal L2 self, L2 learning experience, instrumentality–promotion, international posture, and cultural/community interest as significant predictors. Notably, L2 learning experience emerged as the most influential predictor across all LOTE groups, offering a promising avenue for educational advancements. It advocates a dynamic teaching approach, fostering positive environments, emphasizing practical benefits, integrating cultural elements, and addressing online classroom challenges. Optimistic recommendations include ongoing teacher development, collaboration among educators, and parental involvement for a vibrant and motivating educational experience. The study’s upbeat tone suggests potential expansion through increased sample sizes and incorporating a diverse array of less commonly taught languages (LCTLs).

Language learning among higher education students: an analysis on motivation

Intrinsic motivation in language learning is ideal to attain successful foreign language learning according to experts (Del Castillo, 2010; Gilakjani et al.,2010). In order to measure its impact at university level, this paper shows the results of a quantitative study conducted at KU Leuven during the academic year 2021-2022 on motivation in foreign language learning. A total of 479 students participated in a survey designed for this purpose. The methodology was based on a multivariate analysis using the statistical package SPSS v. 25. The research findings show that university students have essentially instrumental motivation for learning foreign languages (FL), which implies that their desire to acquire a second language (L2) is limited to practical purposes. On the other hand, the study has identified a representative segment of students, referred to as “incidental students”, who are characterised by not having any clear motivation (neither instrumental nor integrative) for FL. The results lead to recommendations for curricular adaptation to enhance intrinsic motivation in foreign language teaching and learning at university level.

Age of onset, motivation, and anxiety as predictors of grammar and vocabulary outcomes in English as a foreign language learners with developmental language disorder

IntroductionLike children with typical language development, their peers with developmental language disorder (DLD) are expected to learn English as a foreign language (EFL). For pupils without DLD, it is well-established that amount of informal exposure to English outside of the classroom, starting age of EFL instruction and motivation are strong positive predictors of EFL learning rate and/or achievement, whereas anxiety is negatively related to performance. This paper is the first attempt to investigate how these predictors of EFL performance operate in learners with DLD. MethodsParticipants were nineteen Dutch-speaking 7th graders with DLD learning English as a school subject at a specialist education facility in the Netherlands. English receptive grammar and receptive vocabulary were measured twice, with a four-month interval. Foreign language learning motivation, anxiety and (length and amount of) informal exposure to and instruction in English were measured via questionnaires. ResultsThe participants did not show any progress on English vocabulary and grammar. At Time 1, vocabulary and grammar scores were positively related to starting age of EFL instruction and negatively related to anxiety. For vocabulary, achievement was also positively predicted by attitudes towards English lessons. Only the relationship between starting age of instruction and vocabulary outcomes was visible at Time 2. Amount and length of informal exposure to English did not predict performance, which is in stark contrast to the patterns observed in EFL learners with typical language development. ConclusionsWe conclude that children with DLD benefit from a later onset of foreign language lessons, whereas length and amount of out-of-school exposure to English are less important in the context of DLD, possibly due to difficulty with implicit learning.

The Importance of Motivation in Foreign Language Learning

Motivation is one of the most important factors in foreign language teaching and learning. It can be defined as the driving force that stimulates and sustains an individual's behavior toward a particular goal or objective. Motivation is a complex construct that can be influenced by various factors, such as personality, cultural background, social environment, and personal experiences. It is essential for language teachers to recognize the importance of motivation in language learning and incorporate motivational strategies into their teaching practices. This can lead to more effective and efficient language learning and a greater sense of engagement and ownership over the learning process for learners. In this paper, we will explore the importance and intricate facets of motivation in foreign language teaching and learning, including the diverse motivational models, types and orientations, and how they affect language proficiency.

Pop Culture and English Language Learning Motivation among Ab-English Students

The study on Pop Culture and English Language Motivation was a descriptive correlational study conducted among the ninety-five (95) AB-English students at the University of Mindanao-Matina Campus, Davao City. This study aims to discover the prevalent relationship between the use of pop culture and English language learning motivation. Adopted questionnaires were utilized as a research instrument to gather the data, which were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and Pearson's r correlation. The study also used total population sampling to select the number of respondents. Based on the findings, there is a high level of pop culture use, particularly on other media platforms, such as English cinema, music, and mobile phones. Moreover, AB-English students have a very high integrative and instrumental motivation to learn the language. Finally, the overall correlation for both variables suggest a moderate positive correlation with a threshold of 0.567, implying that learners with a high-level use of pop culture media are more likely to be integratively and instrumentally motivated to learn English, especially when using other media platforms, such as English cinema, music, and mobile phones.

Improving Students’ Motivation to Collaborate Using Instagram: An Action Research in SMAN 1 Depok Yogyakarta

This research aimed to show how Instagram could be used to improve students' motivation to collaborate and how discussing with friends could influence their motivation to be involved in collaborating. This research was conducted knowing that the students’ low motivation in collaboration impacted their activeness in class participation, work results, and low quality of social interactions. This study was classroom action research in two Grade 11 classes as the actual action sites. To collect the data, the researchers interviewed six students in both classes. The ARCS Model by Keller (2023) was used as a framework to answer the research questions: ‘How can Instagram be used to enhance students' collaboration motivation in an interactive online discussion forum? and ‘How can discussions with friends on social media influence student motivation and involvement in collaborative English language learning? The framework was chosen because it was designed to increase students' learning motivation and focused on attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction. This study found that Instagram could improve students’ motivation to collaborate in online discussion forums. Further, the platform transformed passive participants or shy students into active participants to were involved in class collaborations.

DAMPAK GAMIFIKASI DALAM PEMBELAJARAN BAHASA INGGRIS

Gamification, the incorporation of game elements into non-game contexts, has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance motivation and engagement in English language learning. This type of research is library research. The research results show that, the synthesis of theoretical insights, empirical findings, and instructional considerations highlights the importance of Gamification in English Language Learning. The significance of incorporating gaming aspects into language education is highlighted by the convergence of theoretical foundations, empirical data, and instructional design considerations

The Role of Gamification in Enhancing Engagement and Motivation in Language Learning

In the evolving landscape of language education, gamification has emerged as a transformative tool, addressing challenges in engagement and motivation through the integration of game-design elements into learning environments. This paper explores the role of gamification in enhancing language learning, particularly within the Malaysian context. It examines recent research demonstrating that well-designed gamified tools can significantly improve learner engagement and motivation, supporting better language acquisition outcomes. Key studies highlight that gamification, through elements such as rewards, challenges, and interactive tasks, creates an enjoyable and immersive learning experience, thereby overcoming traditional barriers like anxiety and lack of confidence. Gamified platforms offer continuous feedback and reward systems that foster intrinsic motivation and encourage consistent learner participation. The paper also discusses the effectiveness of gamification in various educational settings, noting that culturally relevant game elements can enhance engagement and learning outcomes. Despite the promising findings, gaps remain, particularly in understanding the long-term impact of gamification on specific language skills and the role of cultural diversity in shaping its effectiveness. Recommendations include evaluating the long-term effects of gamification on language proficiency, investigating its influence on specific language skills across diverse contexts, and exploring the impact of cultural and linguistic diversity on gamified learning tools. By addressing these areas, the paper aims to provide deeper insights into the potential and limitations of gamification in language education, offering practical recommendations for educators and policymakers to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of language learning strategies.

Role of Motivation for Learning English as Foreign Language

Abstract
 Background: Motivation is a central aspect clarifying the achievement and failure for learning English or other foreign language. Identifying the motivation to improve and maintain on learning activities or process or learning a language which have been depend on internal strengthen or internal mechanism. Objectives: Motivated students will use an active learning attitude to learn and express a keen interest who is learning, and concentrate in class to gain knowledge. Method: In this paper, the best previous research papers has been reviewed, and it has found that the investigator defines the term motivation, types of motivation, the role of motivation in language learning and crucial factors of motivation. Result: The learners were motivated both integratively and instrumentally. The achievement in learning English and academic performance in general courses were highly noteworthy.