English language students and their motivation to learn the language

Abstract

Abstract: This academic research aimed to investigate students' motivation to learn English and find out what they think that motivates or discourages them to learn the language. The research was conducted in a high school in Chone, Manabí. Surveys were applied to a random sample of 100 male and female students, 20 students per class. Observations to these five classes were also used to give the qualitative input required to make it more accurate and to understand important aspects that influence students' motivation to learn. Therefore, quantitative and qualitative methods were employed. One of the main discoveries about what discouraged students from learning the language was the lack of engagement with the topics being taught, as they felt they would not be helpful in everyday life situations. On the other hand, a relevant reason for students to feel motivated according to the results obtained was the use of songs as a tool for teaching. Results also showed that grades helped students feel motivated (or not) towards learning the language.