Motivational Fluctuations while Performing English Tasks on Cross-Border Collaborations in International Missions

Motivation is among key components in facilitating second language learning. In order to assess the extent of learners’ Second Language (L۲) motivation, different models have been proposed throughout the history. In the very recent models of L۲ motivation, it has been specified that motivation for learning a new language is not an all-or-nothing construct, but is gradually formed over time and is constantly changing. With reliance on the link between Chaos Complex Theory (CCT) and L۲ Motivational Self-Systems (L۲MSS), the present study has combined different elements like L۲ Imagery, L۲ Self-Concept, L۲ Possible Selves, and L۲ Task Motivation with different timescales. In fact, the extent and nature of motivational dynamicity in a group of L۲ learners was studied over longer timescales (monthly) composed of a number of tasks carried out in shorter timescales (weekly). Employing a longitudinal qualitative design, ۱۰ participants were interviewed at the start of, in the middle and while performing tasks, and in the end the course in order to find the interaction among various motivational components. A bottom-up coding strategy was used to analyze qualitative data. The findings revealed momentary fluctuations in L۲ motivation over different timescales. In addition, it was shown that motivational elements were not equally effective over the course and while performing the tasks and little by little participants moved away from external elements and towards internal ones. Another important result was the existence of flux, ups and downs, and dynamic interaction among varied motivational components through different timescales. Finally, a number of research implications were driven from the present findings.

کلیدواژه ها:

Chaos Complex Theory ، L۲ Imagery ، L۲ Motivational Self-Systems ، L۲ Possible Selves ، L۲ Self-Concept ، L۲ Task Motivation