English language students and their motivation to learn the language

Abstract

Abstract: The present research is about English language students and their motivation to learn the language. Its purpose is to analyze the students' perception in relation to their motivation to learn English inside the classroom and to know the factors that motivate students to learn, as well as the factors that hinder them from learning the new language. The study was carried out in a private high school in Quito. The sample for this research included 100 students from eighth grade to second year of baccalaureate. The data was gathered through questionnaires applied to students and English class observations. In order to fulfill the purpose of this investigation, a qualitative and quantitative method was applied. The results obtained revealed that there is a lack of motivation in high school students as a consequence of their not understanding the methodology, the strategies, and the basic material (eg. textbook) used by teachers. Teachers in some cases do not support students or provide feedback nor do they encourage students with motivational strategies such as rewarding. The study also shows that students prefer varied activities in the classroom and the use of real world activities.