Elvis Nizigama - English Department, Faculty of Languages and Literature, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran
Ali Fazilatfar - English Department, Faculty of Languages and Literature, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran
Mohammad Javad Rezai - English Department, Faculty of Languages and Literature, Yazd University, Yazd, Iran

This mixed methods study compares L۲ learning motivation of Burundi simultaneous learners of French, English and Kiswahili, mainly focusing on L۲ Motivational Self System (L۲MSS). A total of ۳۴۸ junior high school students participated in a ۶۰-item questionnaire survey, and ۱۲ of those learners participated in a follow-up semi-structured interview. The quantitative data were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) while the interview data were analysed employing a thematic analysis method. The results support the validity of the L۲MSS in comparing and explaining Burundi simultaneous multiple language learners’ motivation. For all the three target languages, L۲ Learning Experience appeared as the strongest predictor of the learners’ intended learning effort, followed by the Ideal L۲ Self only in relation to English and French learning. The role of the variable of International Posture on the three components of the L۲MSS, which was assumed to be influenced by the Burundi socio-educational context, was also observed in the SEM analysis. The analysis indicated that the impact of International Posture on Ideal L۲ Self was only significant in the models of both English and Kiswahili while its impact on L۲ Learning Experience was only significant in the model of Kiswahili. The interview data also provided further insight into the quantitative findings. Pedagogical implications are provided based on these key findings.

L۲ Motivational Self System, mixed methods research, International Posture, Multiple language learning, Burundi socio-educational context