Motivation for learning English among the students of South Eastern University of Sri Lanka.

Abstract

Motivation is one of the main influential factors of success in developing a second or foreign language. It is a complex phenomenon which includes instrumental, integrative, long term, short term, intrinsic and extrinsic varieties. The current study aimed to examine which type of motivation influences ESL students of South Eastern University of Sri Lanka the most and it examined whether there is a relationship between the students' ability (high and low ability learners) and the type of motivation. To reach the objectives of the research, the study was conducted among 60 third year Faculty of Arts and Culture students of academic year 2013/14. To examine the relationship between the students' ability and the type of motivation, 30 students from low ability learners and 30 students from quick learners were selected as samples. This study adopted both quantitative approach (through employing a questionnaire among the samples) and qualitative approach (through interview among selected students). The findings of the research show that both high ability and low ability students of the SEUSL are motivated by instrumental and integrative purposes. 40% of high ability students do not agree for some of the extrinsic factors. The research shows that there is a strong relationship between instrumental and extrinsic motivations and integrative and intrinsic motivation. The current research helps identifying the components that influence student's motivation in language learning and proposes ways in which teachers, material designers can improve levels of motivation in the classroom and the extent to which these measures are effective.