Language learning motivation and CLIL

2015 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 28-50 ◽  
Author(s):  
Liss Kerstin Sylvén ◽  
Amy S. Thompson

Language learning is multifaceted, and within Second Language Acquisition (SLA) research, motivation is one of the most frequently studied aspects. The impetus of the current study is to further explore second language learning motivation as well as its impact on the language acquisition process within the context of Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL). This study uses Dörnyei’s (2009) framework of the L2 Motivational Self System from which the Motivational Factors Questionnaire (MFQ) has been created and validated by Ryan (2009). This study was conducted at the high school level in Sweden and includes students enrolled in CLIL programs (N = 109) and non-CLIL programs (N = 68) at three different schools. In this paper, the subcategories of the MFQ are analyzed using one-way ANOVAs with CLIL/non-CLIL, L1, and gender as the independent variables. The results indicate that there are differences in attitudes and motivation of CLIL vs. non-CLIL students.

2016 ◽  
Vol 49 (4) ◽  
pp. 564-577 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ema Ushioda

In this paper I propose an agenda for researching language learning motivation ‘through a small lens’, to counteract our tendency in the second language (L2) motivation field to engage with language learning and teaching processes at a rather general level. I argue that by adopting a more sharply focused or contextualized angle of inquiry, we may be able to understand better how motivation connects with specific aspects of second language acquisition (SLA) or particular features of linguistic development. Keeping the empirical focus narrow may also lead to interesting and illuminating analyses of motivation in relation to particular classroom events or to evolving situated interactions among teachers and learners. I propose a number of possible research tasks that might be undertaken by experienced researchers, teacher-researchers or student-researchers wishing to investigate language learning motivation ‘through a small lens’.


2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (2) ◽  
pp. 116-126
Author(s):  
Susi P. Kandati ◽  
Devilito P. Tatipang

The intention of this study is to find out the effect of virtual teaching on attitudes of second language acquisition during Covid-19 condition.  Most school quickly closed to protect the students and teachers from the virus.  The study findings indicate that Virtual Teaching (VT) marked a positive change in the attitudes of the students.  This study was performed both qualitatively and quantitatively.  In order to find out the effect of virtual teaching on second language acquisition attitudes, a questionnaire was distributed.  It was conducted at the Senior High School level.  The questionnaire was distributed among 77 third year students of random Senior High School with a google form sent through WhatsApp due to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic.  It was designed on five linear scales.


2018 ◽  
Vol 7 (3.6) ◽  
pp. 192
Author(s):  
A Delbio ◽  
M Ilankumaran

Psychological aspects play an important role in language learning. Motivation is one of the terms used to achieve the language. The theories of second language focus mainly on motivation, nature of motivation, implications of second language acquisition and linguistic process. The theories are practices and used as a teaching method. The instructor can have a clear vision on theories to implement them in the classroom. The learning environment and reinforcement are the important factors in learning psychology. Due to psychological problems and lack of training and guidance, the learners lose hope of learning. Cognitive psychology deals with mental process which involves in language learning. This paper aims at analysing the psychological factors affecting language acquisition and analyses the psychological theories, techniques, methods and approaches to develop the language acquisition. 


2008 ◽  
Vol 155 ◽  
pp. 95-115 ◽  
Author(s):  
Theresa McGarry

AbstractThe increasing recognition of the concept language ideology and the corresponding increasing use of the term have not yet been matched by applications in the field of second language acquisition. However, applications of the concept in analysis of actual classroom practices have shown it to have considerable explanatory power. Greater consideration of language ideology in SLA is necessary not only to achieve greater understanding of the role of ideology in various areas but also to show connections between these areas that may yield important generalizations and to impel the application of the concept in areas where it has been neglected by highlighting its uneven treatment.


2016 ◽  
Vol 2 (s1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Shiri Lev-Ari

AbstractPeople learn language from their social environment. Therefore, individual differences in the input that their social environment provides could influence their linguistic performance. Nevertheless, investigation of the role of individual differences in input on performance has been mostly restricted to first and second language acquisition. In this paper I argue that individual differences in input can influence linguistic performance even in adult native speakers. Specifically, differences in input can affect performance by influencing people’s knowledgebase, by modulating their processing manner, and by shaping expectations. Therefore, studying the role that individual differences in input play can improve our understanding of how language is learned, processed and represented.


2005 ◽  
Vol 25 ◽  
pp. 46-73 ◽  
Author(s):  
Peter Robinson

Recent second language acquisition (SLA) research into the cognitive abilities implicated in implicit, incidental, and explicit learning, and in learning and performance on tasks differing in their information processing demands has prompted new theoretical frameworks for conceptualizing L2 aptitude. This research is reviewed and related to measures of abilities operationalized in existing aptitude tests, as well as to measures of abilities that are the focus of more recent research in cognitive psychology. Finally, prospects for developing aptitude tests to serve the purposes of predicting both early and advanced level language learning success are discussed in the light of the SLA findings and aptitude frameworks reviewed.


Author(s):  
Julie M. Sykes

AbstractThe recent surge in a growing body of empirical research is evidence of a strong theoretical push towards L2 pragmatic acquisition in the field of second language acquisition; yet, the reality is that we see very little evidence of pragmatics instruction in L2 contexts, suggesting a notable disconnect between theory and practice. This viewpoints article explores the valuable role both researchers and practitioners play in bridging the gap between theory and practice with the intention of bringing pragmatics to the forefront of the language classroom. It briefly discusses the importance of including pragmatics as a primary component of second language (L2) learning and then explores various obstacles to pragmatics instruction, paying special attention to the role both researchers and practitioners can play in overcoming them. Examples from current projects related to L2 Spanish pragmatics are presented where relevant.


Author(s):  
Nandang Rachmat ◽  
Hiroko Otsuka

This paper discusses the Japanese semi aspectual forms -teshimau and -teoku function as discourse markers which serve as speaker’s intentions of utterances for rapport management. In general, the semantic function of the morphological semi aspectual forms such as -teshimau and -teoku are explained as expressions of feelings of remorse or regret as well as preparatory actions, respectively. Both of them derived from the explanation of “completion” as a core meaning. The meanings mentioned above are also learned in elementary and pre-intermediate levels of Japanese language learning as a second language. However, the results of this research, which derived from analysis using I-JAS corpus dialogue data, indicate that in interpersonal discourse, these aspectual forms are used to show self-deprecating and modest attitudes, sentimental mood, or inevitable and difficult situations. Additionally, as a discourse marker, they are used to express utterance intentions such as showing speaker’s responsible recognition for the situation occurred, respecting the opinion of the interlocutor, and avoiding current topic to be continued. They also function as act of politeness due to the effects of “down graders” and “upgraders” in Spencer-Oatey's theory of rapport management, while in this research indicates that improperly use of -teoku might sound impolite depending on the utterance situations. Furthermore, it was found that they work as discourse markers for rounding up dialogs or shifting topics, and there are differences between -teshimau and -teoku in whether it is the interlocutor’s topic or the speaker’s topic that was being rounded up. For these reasons, second language acquisition requires learning about indicative meanings of these forms that function in the contexts and utterance situations, and the findings of this research will also contribute to the research of Japanese language teaching materials.


2016 ◽  
Vol 4 (1) ◽  
pp. 53 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zahra Mahdikhani

<p>The importance of the learner's attitudes and motivation plays a major role for most psycholinguists, either in a language learning situation or in a second language acquisition context. A quick look at the major theories of language acquisition can be helpful to establish this. Krashen's monitor model argues attitudes and motivation most influential in unconscious language acquisition. The learner's motivational level acts as an affective filter on language intake (Krashen 1981, p. 102). In another model language learning begins when the learner feels motivated to communicate something to someone (see Carroll's conscious reinforcement model, 1981). Reinforcement takes place when the desired end is obtained. Bialystok's strategy model (1978) demonstrates that it can be assumed that learners will seek language exposure only if they feel motivated. Therefore, using their explicit and/or implicit knowledge, communication will take place. This study investigates the challenges and the importance of motivation for second language learning or SL acquisition.</p>


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