Language Learning + Motivation

Question 1

Change from input to output focus

Answer 1

Teacher is responsible for outcome -> teaching & learning is goal-driven and focused on intended learning

Question 2

The goal of teaching?

Answer 2

Individualized, student-centered lessons with opportunities for self-regulated learners to learn independently while receiving individual support

Question 3

Motivation - basic definition

Answer 3

An internal state that arouses, directs and maintains behaviour

Question 4

1st Theory of Motivation: Self-Determination (Humanistic)

Answer 4

Three basic Human Needs:
1. Autonomy & Control: authority in one’s life & in charge of one’s behaviour and choices; internal focus of control
2. Competence: feel competent, achieve/ improve something
3. Social Relatedness: feel connected, sense of belonging (social groups)
- INTRINSIC motivation (more sustainable)
- Students learn more, are more interested in their work, have higher self-esteem

Question 5

2nd Theory: Cognitive Attribution Theory

Answer 5

Attribution Pattern of past events influences motivation for similar events in the future
- focus on causality vs. controllability/ stability
- beliefs and attributions for past success and failure
= motivation is given when events are perceived as controllable
- Learned Helplessness = one perceives events and outcomes as uncontrollable -> downward spiral occurs (“I cannot do anything anyway”)
- Motivational Deficits = reluctant to work
- Cognitive Deficits = no training of abilities/ skills/ competences
- Emotional Deficits = depression, anxiety, anger

-> focus on what can be done to mitigate issues; provide security, clarify expectations, reduce pressure, celebrate success

Question 6

3rd Theory: Expectancy-Value Theory

Answer 6

1. Expectation of success based on perception of one’s own abilities & competences
   - self-concept/ confidence
   - past success
   - praise and feedback (strengthens self-concept)

-> break down long-term goals into achievable, smaller ones

2. Value (importance/ attractiveness) of the goal in relation to the cost of pursuing it (sacrifice and energy)