Author: Xiao, Yuchen
Title: What factors affect the passion towards English learning? A case study of learning motivation in mainland Chinese ESL classrooms
Advisors: Schluter, Anne Ambler (ENGL)
Degree: M.A.
Year: 2022
Subject: English language -- Study and teaching -- Chinese speakers
Second language acquisition
Motivation (Psychology)
Hong Kong Polytechnic University -- Dissertations
Department: Department of English and Communication
Pages: vii, 47 pages : color illustrations
Language: English
Abstract: Studies show that the level of motivation will affect the performance of second language learning, but there are numerous factors that may affect the L2 motivation, and they vary from person to person and culture to culture. However, even though English has been attached to much importance in China, the mastery of English among mainland students is not very ideal. This single embedded case study investigated on whether students are more influenced by intrinsic motivation or extrinsic motivation in English classes in mainland China, and what factors would affect students' motivation toward English learning under this study background.
A total of ten non-English major college students participated in the interview. They come from different schools and all take English as compulsory courses. The interviews in this study were semi-structured so that students will be able to express freely of their opinions and suggestions.
The results showed that more students had intrinsic motivation than extrinsic one, but many students possess both. Moreover, there are many factors that can affect students' learning motivation, such as encouragement and support from family members and teachers, teaching methods and styles, students' confidence in themselves, negative emotions, and oral or written feedback on learning results. In addition, this study proposes some ways to improve the motivation of Mainland Students in English learning, with implications for teachers attached under the discussion of each topic.
Rights: All rights reserved
Access: restricted access

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