English language students and their motivation to learn the language

Abstract

The present research explores students' motivation to learn English. The main objective of this research is to know more deeply the perceptions of the students in relation to their motivation to learn English in the classroom. The research was carried out in the city of Quito, Ecuador. The sample included 100 students between 12 and 16 years old belonging to 8th, 9th, 10th and 1st year of high school and 5 teachers. Qualitative and quantitative methods were used for this research. The qualitative method was used to describe and interpret the information throughout the process and the quantitative method was used to analyze and interpret the results. The research findings reveal that students are motivated to learn English. Students think that the type of activities and the attitudes of their teachers are determining factors in the level of motivation to learn the language. During classroom observations, teachers worked to motivate students through a variety of activities, giving them the opportunity to participate and feedback that would help students improve their learning experience