Original scientific paper
Motivation in foreign language learning: a look at type of school environment as a contextual variable
Višnja Pavičić Takač
orcid.org/0000-0001-8318-0235
; University of Osijek
Nives Berka
Abstract
Impelled by the observation that motivation might be one of the most important factors within the affective domain influencing foreign language learning (FLL), the field of second language acquisition (SLA) has seen an intense worldwide interest in empirical research in motivational issues. The studies have been rooted in different theories and methodologies, (most notably those advanced by Gardner and Dörnyei and their respective associates) that have given precedence to a number of variables assume to play an important role in understanding the phenomenon of FLL motivation. The present study is set between the macroperspective of the social-psychological period–by giving a general view of second language motivation–and the situation-specific period–by taking into consideration the immediate
learning context. It focuses on exploring the nature of FLL motivation in Croatia at secondary education level where FLL is part of core curriculum. In particular, it explores the role of one specific
contextual variable that has been largely ignored in SLA motivational research, i.e. type of school environment, and its interaction with gender and success in FLL.
Keywords
motivation; grammar school; vocational school; Croatia; EFL
Hrčak ID:
151247
URI
Publication date:
16.1.2016.
Visits: 2.407 *