L2 Self-System and Factors Affecting English Learning Motivation: A Qualitative and Quantitative Study

2015 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 24720269
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Young Scientists (B)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Research Field: Foreign language education
• Research Institution: Kanagawa University (2013-2015); Tokai University (2012)
• Principal Investigator: KIKUCHI KEITA 神奈川大学, 外国語学部, 准教授 (20434350)
• Project Period (FY): 2012-04-01 – 2016-03-31
• Keywords: 動機付け

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The purpose of this study was to identify the factors that increase the motivation of English learners who study at the tertiary level in Japan. This research focused on the learners' L2 self-systems (Ideal L2 self, Ought-to L2 self, and L2 Experience). In short, the results of the study using both qualitative and quantitative methods indicated that having a clear ideal L2 self is important in maintaining learner motivation. Based on the qualitative analysis of the interview data, it was found that many learners have a hard time motivating themselves if they have only a vague ideal self.

Free Research Field

外国語教育