ERIC Number: EJ995934
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013-Apr
Pages: 15
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0033-6882
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Available Date: N/A
Examining English Language Learning Motivation of Adult International Learners Studying Abroad in the US
Weger, Heather D.
RELC Journal: A Journal of Language Teaching and Research, v44 n1 p87-101 Apr 2013
The present study reports on the motivations of adult, international learners of English, studying English 20 hours a week in a US-based Intensive English Program (IEP). Though often used as participants in language acquisition studies, there are few studies of these learners' motivational profiles. In the current study, a questionnaire designed to measure language attitudes, learning orientations, and learning confidence was administered to 131 IEP learners. Factor analysis of the responses revealed five motivation components: Learning Self-Confidence, Attitudes toward English Language Learning/Community, Personal English Use, Value of English Learning, and International Posture. The results attest to a dualistic nature of instrumentality and suggest that even in a study abroad setting, international English learners are less motivated by positive attitudes toward the English community and more motivated by a sense of personal pride in learning and using English, even when learning confidence is low. (Contains 3 tables and 1 note.)
Descriptors: Factor Analysis, Learning Motivation, English (Second Language), Second Language Learning, Curriculum, Language Attitudes, Study Abroad, Positive Attitudes, Adult Students, Intensive Language Courses, Questionnaires, Self Efficacy, Second Language Instruction
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Adult Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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Identifiers - Location: District of Columbia
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